Etna Rosso DOC

TheEtna Rosso DOC is one of the most fascinating and prestigious appellations in Italian viticulture. The wines of this appellation are produced exclusively on the slopes of the volcano Etna, in Sicily, one of the most unique terroirs in the world. Characterised by extraordinary elegance, finesse and a pronounced minerality, the Etna Rosso DOC are red wines of great personality, able to combine tradition and modernity.

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Origin and History of the Appellation

TheEtna DOC was established in 1968, making it the first Denominazione di Origine Controllata of the Sicily and one of the oldest in Italy. TheEtna Rosso DOC represents the ultimate expression of the red wines of this region, made mainly from the native grape variety Nerello Mascalese, often accompanied by the Nerello Cappuccio.Viticulture on Etna has very ancient origins, dating back to the time of the Greeks and the Romans. The combination of volcanic soils, high altitudes and a unique microclimate has always made this area particularly well suited to growing vines.

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Production Area of the Etna Rosso DOC

The appellation Etna Rosso DOC takes in numerous municipalities on the slopes of the volcano Etna, in the provinces of Catania. The vineyards lie at various altitudes, between 450 and the 1.200 metres above sea level, making them among the highest in Europe.

Main Municipalities

• Randazzo
• Castiglione di Sicilia
• Linguaglossa
• Milo
• Zafferana Etnea
• Nicolosi
• Viagrande

Volcanic Soils

The soils are made up of volcanic sands, basalt, ash e lapilli, elements that guarantee:

• Excellent drainage.
• High mineral richness.
• Large variability of micro-terroir.

Climate

• Continental tempered by the sea breezes.
• Temperature swings marked between day and night, which encourage slow ripening of the grapes.
• Volcanic influence which enriches the soil and shapes the quality of the grapes.

Grape Varieties of the Etna Rosso DOC Appellation

Main Grape Variety

• Nerello Mascalese (minimum 80%): The native grape variety par excellence, known for its elegance and its ability to express the volcanic terroir.

Complementary Grape Variety

• Nerello Cappuccio (maximum 20%): Adds softness, colour and fruitiness to the wine.

In some cases, Nerello Mascalese can be vinified as a single variety, giving a wine of great structure and complexity.

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Sensory Profile of Etna Rosso DOC

TheEtna Rosso DOC is famous for its elegant profile and its extraordinary ability to evolve over time.

Colour

• Transparent ruby red, which with age tends towards garnet.

Aromas

• Red fruits: cherry, raspberry, redcurrant.
• Floral notes: dried rose, violet.
• Spices: black pepper, cinnamon, cloves.
• Minerality: graphite, volcanic ash.
• Development: leather, tobacco, undergrowth.

On the Palate

• Silky tannins and well integrated.
• Vibrant acidity, which gives freshness and longevity.
• Minerality pronounced, with an elegant structure.
• Finish lingering, with spicy and mineral echoes.

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Winemaking Techniques of the Etna Rosso DOC

The winemaking of theEtna Rosso DOC is based on respect for the terroir and for tradition:

• Spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts to bring out the terroir.
• Extended macerations to extract aromas and structure.
• Ageing in large oak casks, tonneaux or chestnut casks.
• In some cases, use is made of thestainless steel to preserve freshness.

Ageing can last several months, with some reserve wines resting for as long as 24-36 months.

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Food Pairings

TheEtna Rosso DOC, thanks to its elegant structure and its freshness, lends itself to many pairings:

• Grilled red meat and roasts.
• Game and game dishes.
• Aged cheeses such as Pecorino and Ragusano.
• Typical Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla Norma or caponata.
• Porcini mushrooms and truffle-based dishes.

Its lively acidity also makes it perfect for accompanying dishes fatty e spicy.

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Why Choose an Etna Rosso DOC?

Choosing a Etna Rosso DOC means immersing yourself in a unique tasting experience, able to tell the story and the strength of an extraordinary volcanic terroir.Thanks to the combination of mineral soils, cool climate and native grape varieties, Etna Rosso is a wine that combines elegance, structure and a strong territorial identity. A wine able to evolve over time and to move you with every sip.