Nerello Mascalese and Grenache: A Unique Blend from Mount Etna
A blend of Nerello Mascalese (80%) and Grenache (20%). The first grape variety is expected, but the second comes as a bit of a surprise. However, Grenache is found in many Italian wine regions, though rarely under its original name: in Sardinia, it’s known as Cannonau (where it is by far the most important red grape variety), in Tuscany as Alicante, in Veneto as Tai Rosso, and around Lake Trasimeno as Gamay.
How Grenache made its way to Sicily is still unclear; what is certain, however, is that the variety has long taken root on Mount Etna, where it thrives despite the altitude and often harsh weather conditions in the volcano’s shadow. Quite the opposite, in fact.
Rori Parasiliti's Grenache vines have been growing for nearly 90 years at 950 meters in the Rivaggi site. The soil, unsurprisingly, is volcanic rock. Like Nerello Mascalese, its ideal partner on Etna, it ripens late and is rarely harvested before the end of October.
After harvesting, both varieties are spontaneously fermented on their skins, pressed after three weeks, and matured in stainless steel tanks and wooden barrels. The wine is neither filtered nor heavily sulfured.
Style
Softer, more open, and velvety compared to Rori Parasiliti’s pure Nerello Mascalese "Alberello." Dark fruit, herbs, eucalyptus. Full of substance and power. Concentrated and meaty. Structured and compact. Builds good pressure towards the palate. Flows elegantly, persistently, and with a long finish.
Specifications
Varietals: Nerello Mascalese (80%) & Grenache
Vineyard: Rivaggi/Etna, volcanic soil
Harvest: By hand
Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts, three weeks on the skins
Aging: In stainless steel tanks and wooden barrels
Filtration: None
SO₂: 8 mg/l
Alcohol content: 13.5% vol.
Closure: Natural cork
Serving temperature: 16-18°C
Optimal drinking window: From now – 2030
Content and price per liter: 0.75 l (€56/l)
Philosophy: All winemakers listed by Vinonudo work in their vineyards using compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, avoiding the use of herbicides, pesticides, and artificial fertilizers.
