What kind of wine is Etna Rosso DOC 'Alberello SRC' 2021 - Cra20

The Etna Rosso DOC 'Alberello SRC' 2021 - Cra20 is a Sicilian red wine of extraordinary identity, an authentic expression of Nerello Mascalese vines cultivated in the alberello (bush vine) system on the slopes of Mount Etna. These vines, with an average age of about 50 years, root in volcanic soils, giving the wine an elegant and mineral personality, typical of the Etna Rosso DOC appellation. It is a red wine with a balanced body and a decisive character, perfect for those seeking a territorial wine that combines tradition, intensity, and freshness.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage on Etna was characterized by a balanced climate, with warm days and cool nights that favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The manually harvested Nerello Mascalese grapes achieved an ideal balance between sugars and acidity, resulting in a harmonious and vibrant wine. This harvest stood out for the excellent quality of the grapes and the extraordinary aromatic cleanliness of the must.

Winemaking and Aging

Winemaking takes place with spontaneous fermentation thanks to indigenous yeasts, a natural process that enhances the authentic character of Nerello Mascalese. Maceration on the skins lasts about three weeks, allowing for the extraction of color, aromas, and fine tannins. Aging then continues for 13 months in concrete tanks, a material that promotes micro-oxygenation without imparting flavors to the wine, preserving its purity and balance. Bottling occurs during the waning moon phase, without the addition of sulfites, to maintain the wine's vitality.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, the Etna Rosso DOC 'Alberello SRC' 2021 - Cra20 presents a luminous ruby red color, with slight garnet reflections that reveal its volcanic origin and controlled maturation.

Nose

The nose reveals a fine and complex bouquet: notes of ripe red fruits, such as cherry and raspberry, intertwine with hints of sweet spices, Mediterranean herbs, and slight mineral accents typical of Etna's soils. An aroma that tells the story of the territory, with a balance between freshness and aromatic depth.

Palate

On the palate, it is fresh and enveloping. The medium body is supported by an elegant and well-integrated tannic texture, which gives way to a long-lasting finish. The sip is lively yet harmonious, with a delicately savory and mineral finish that invites another taste. A versatile wine, ready to drink but also capable of evolving over time.

What dishes to pair with Etna Rosso DOC 'Alberello SRC' 2021 - Cra20

This wine lends itself to numerous pairings thanks to its structure and the typical freshness of Etna wines. It is ideal with:

• traditional Sicilian dishes, such as caponata or eggplant meatballs;
• grilled or roasted red meats;
• semi-aged cheeses and strongly flavored cured meats;
• pasta dishes with ragu or rich and spicy sauces.

Also perfect to enjoy on its own, to appreciate its purity and evolving complexity.

Storage and aging: how to store Etna Rosso DOC 'Alberello SRC' 2021 - Cra20 wine

To preserve the characteristics of Etna Rosso DOC 'Alberello SRC' 2021 - Cra20, it is advisable to store it in a cool environment, with a constant temperature between 14°C and 16°C, away from light and vibrations. The bottle should preferably be stored horizontally, so that the cork remains moist and ensures a perfect seal.

Thanks to its structure and aromatic finesse, this Etna Rosso has an interesting evolutionary potential: it can age for 6-8 years, preserving elegance and complexity, and developing tertiary notes of spices and undergrowth over time. A wine that gracefully matures, a testament to the authenticity and strength of its extraordinary volcanic territory.