Nicosia Monte Gorna Etna Rosso

Cantine Nicosia is a long established family winery based at the foot of Etna. Its top Etna wines come from the Monte Gorna estate in the Trecastagni area, close to the cellar. Monte Gorna is an extinct volcanic cone. Its soils are largely made of small pumice stones known locally as ripiddu, typical of these dormant cones. They drain very well and are rich in potassium, which helps the grapes ripen evenly. The vineyard covers 10 hectares at about 2,460 feet, faces southeast, and is farmed with organically grown grapes. Etna Rosso must be at least 80% Nerello Mascalese. Nerello Cappuccio, which can make up no more than 20%, adds depth of color to make up for Mascalese’s naturally pale hue. This wine ferments for about 15 days in stainless steel. Pale ruby in the glass, the wine is often compared to Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo. Look for wild strawberry, cherry and rose petal with licorice, herbs and a smoky, volcanic edge. Bright acidity and fine, grippy tannins give it a long finish.