2021 Duca di Salaparuta, Etna Rosso, Lavico (RT92)(+?) The question mark asks whether or not the midpalate with gain weight with time in the bottle. If it does, then it may merit a slight bump in my score. Here is a pure Nerello Mascalese that’s crafted from younger vines and is made to be consumed young. Fragrant notes of Marasca cherry, red raspberry, cinnamon, hints of sous bois and generous wisp of volcanic ash mark this profile. The palate is round, supple and generously fruit-packed, the grip and acidity making it a fine food pairing with charcuterie, wood grilled sausage, and red sauce pasted dishes. Drink now-2029 Tasted August 2024
This pure Nerello Mascalese bottling comes from the northeastern slopes of Mount Etna, where the young vines are situated on the Vajasindi Estate. The elevation here is 600-800 meters, and the wines are grown in pure volcanic soils using the Spurred Cordon training system, in contrast to most of the older vines grown on the slopes of Mount Etna that are bush vines. The grapes are hand harvested, destemmed and fermented and undergoes malolactic in those same stainless tanks using only indigenous yeasts. The wine is then aged in a combination of concrete and French oak barriques for 12 months. This is an early drinking Nerello Mascalese, not meant to be laid down, so enjoy it now!
