Description

Monteleone, Etna Rosso Doc 2022

This sophisticated Sicilian red is a precise blend of 90% Nerello Mascalese and 10% Nerello Cappuccio, sourced from 50-year-old vines. These indigenous varieties are often compared to Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo for their ability to transmit terroir with elegance and power. The inclusion of Nerello Cappuccio adds color and a softening fruitiness to the more structured and tannic Nerello Mascalese, resulting in a harmonious expression of Mount Etna's viticultural heritage.

The 2022 vintage on Etna was characterized by a challenging dry spell during the growing season, which was fortunately alleviated by timely conditions in October, allowing for a harvest of energetic and balanced fruit. The grapes are grown in the Contrada Cuba vineyard on the northern slopes of the volcano at an elevation of approximately 500 meters. The soil here is distinct from other parts of Etna; while it consists of the classic volcanic sands, it also contains a unique 10% mix of limestone clay due to its proximity to the Alcantara River. This specific geological composition imparts a distinctive saline minerality and structural depth to the wine.

In the glass, the wine displays a brilliant, translucent ruby hue indicative of its volcanic origins. The nose is complex and expressive, offering aromas of dried black cherries, wild raspberries, and pomegranate, layered with savory notes of Mediterranean underbrush, graphite, and a spicy kick of white peppercorn and dried chili. On the palate, this is a medium-bodied, dry wine defined by its silky texture and tension. Flavors of ripe wild berries are framed by polished, fine-grained tannins and a vibrant acidity that drives a long, crisp finish marked by a lingering saline quality.

Winemakers Giulia Monteleone and Benedetto Alessandro employ a philosophy of minimal intervention to let the vineyard speak clearly. Farming is conducted organically, and the grapes are hand-harvested in the cool morning hours. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks with a maceration period of 10-12 days to extract color and phenolics gently. The wine is then aged for 12 months in a combination of French oak tonneaux (10% new) and large vats, followed by six months in concrete tanks and another six months in the bottle before release, ensuring seamless integration of oak and fruit.

For food pairings, this Etna Rosso offers excellent versatility with American cuisine. It pairs beautifully with grilled pork chops seasoned with rosemary and garlic; the wine's herbal undertones mirror the seasoning while its acidity cuts through the richness of the meat. Alternatively, try it with a cedar-plank salmon; the wine's medium body and smoky mineral notes complement the char and wood smoke perfectly. It would also be an exceptional match for a mushroom and swiss burger, where the earthiness of the mushrooms highlights the volcanic soil characteristics of the wine.

Critics have lauded this vintage for its energy and refinement. James Suckling awarded the wine 93 points, praising its balance and crisp finish, while Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it 92 points, noting its "enormous elegance and charm." Given its pedigree and the skyrocketing popularity of Etna wines, this bottling represents remarkable value, offering a high-end drinking experience at a relatively accessible price point compared to its peers in Burgundy or Barolo.