What kind of wine is Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci?

The Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci is an elegant and authentic red wine, a pure expression of the volcanic Etna territory. It is primarily made from Nerello Mascalese grapes, one of Sicily's most representative native grape varieties, with a small percentage of Nerello Cappuccio. The Etna Rosso DOC appellation guarantees a deep connection with the slopes of the volcano, where altitude and lava soils impart a unique mineral character and natural freshness to the wine. This is a medium-bodied, fine, and harmonious wine, designed for those who appreciate red wines with a refined and territorial profile.

Vintage Details

The 2023 vintage on Etna was characterized by balanced climatic conditions: mild temperatures and good diurnal temperature variations favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The result is a wine in which the fruity component of Nerello Mascalese expresses itself clearly, while maintaining the freshness that distinguishes high-altitude reds.

Winemaking and Aging

After manual harvesting, the grapes are spontaneously fermented — meaning with indigenous yeasts — in concrete tanks. Maceration on the skins allows the wine to acquire color, structure, and complex aromas. The Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci then ages for about 18 months, also in concrete tanks, a neutral vessel that preserves the aromatic purity of the fruit, and refines for another 2 months in the bottle before release. This choice reflects the style of the Graci winery, which focuses on authenticity and the expressive transparency of the terroir.

Tasting Notes

The Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci is a classy wine that captivates with its balance, tension, and pleasantness. Its sensory characteristics immediately convey the gentle strength of the volcano.

Color

Visually, it presents a luminous ruby red, with delicate garnet reflections, indicating finesse and measured extraction.

Nose

On the nose, it releases aromas of fresh red fruits — cherry and raspberry — accompanied by floral notes of rose and light hints of spices and volcanic ash. The mineral component, typical of Etna wines, adds depth and originality to the bouquet.

Palate

On the palate, it is balanced and dynamic: the sip combines a fresh natural acidity with fine, well-integrated tannins. The body is lean but decisive, with a long and persistent finish that recalls fruity and mineral sensations. It is a wine that invites a second glass due to its elegance and pleasant drinkability.

Food Pairings for Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci

Versatile and harmonious, the Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci pairs easily with a wide range of Mediterranean dishes and traditional Sicilian cuisine. Perfect with:

• Appetizers of cured meats or semi-aged cheeses
• First courses with light ragù or tomato sauces
• Grilled white or red meats
• Structured fish dishes, such as grilled tuna or swordfish

Thanks to its freshness and elegant tannins, it also harmoniously accompanies vegetarian dishes like eggplant parmesan or vegetable timbales.

Storage and Aging: How to store Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci wine

To maintain the quality of the Etna Rosso DOC 2023 - Graci, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place with constant humidity, at a temperature around 14-16°C. The bottle should be kept horizontally, so that the cork remains moist and maintains its seal. Although it is a wine enjoyable to drink immediately, it can evolve positively for 5-7 years, developing more complex aromas and spicy and earthy nuances over time.

An Etna red that embodies the entire essence of the volcano: authentic, mineral, and irresistibly Sicilian.