Barone di Villagrande - Contrada Villagrande Etna Rosso DOC 2017 750ml (13.5% ABV)
Etna is a world apart in not only Sicilian but Mediterranean oenology. The heat of the South is combined with mists, temperature changes, and frequent rains - there is a hint of the great North in these wines.
perfume of volcano terroir (smoky/stony), red flowers, chopped herbs, red cherry pip and subtle balsamic tones coming from the two years in the chestnut barrels (which come straight from the estate’s forest and has been "watching" the grapes for their entire journey from the vineyard to the bottle).
Harmonious medium bodied red with great depth, pomegranate, dried black cherry and a long savory finish. A few years of age has perfectly integrated the now-silky wood tannins, combined with an unusual touch of vivacity and elegance, a sophisticated Cru-level (contrada = district or commune) Etna Rosso from a marquee producer. Can be cellared for another 6-7 years (they guarantee 20 years from the vintage!)
region: sicily, italy
varietals: 80% nerello mascalese, 20% nerello cappuccio
style: red
farming & cellar: from estate Cru vineyard located in Milo Contrada Catania, 700 meters above sea level, hand harvested, fermentation in steel for about 10 days, and aging in 500-liter chestnut barrels for 24 months. The wine is bottled and aged in bottle for one year.
pairing: spit fire roasted meats, pork loin with cherry compote, charcuterie,