What kind of wine is Etna Rosso DOC 'Contrada Santo Spirito' 2019 - Palmento Costanzo

The Etna Rosso DOC 'Contrada Santo Spirito' 2019 - Palmento Costanzo originates on the northern slope of Etna, in Passopisciaro, one of the most renowned viticultural areas of the volcano. It is an elegant and territorial red wine, obtained from a skillful balance of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, two native grape varieties that find their most authentic expression in these volcanic lands. The wine's body is harmonious, refined yet decisive, with a tannic structure typical of Etna wines, capable of evolving gracefully over time.

Vintage Details

The 2019 vintage on Etna was characterized by a balanced climate, with moderate temperatures and a significant diurnal temperature range. These conditions favored a slow and uniform ripening of the grapes, ensuring complex aromas and soft tannins. The manual harvest allowed for the selection of only the best bunches, from alberello-trained vines cultivated organically on volcanic soils, at altitudes ranging from 650 to 800 meters.

Winemaking and Aging

Winemaking takes place in truncated conical French oak vats, where fermentation develops thanks to indigenous yeasts – naturally present in the cellar and on the grape skins – which preserve the identity of the terroir. The wine remains in contact with the skins for an extended period, achieving an intense color and a complex structure. Aging lasts 24 months in oval French oak barrels, called “Ovum,” which favor a slow and regular evolution, imparting balance and aromatic depth.

Tasting Notes

The Etna Rosso DOC 'Contrada Santo Spirito' 2019 - Palmento Costanzo offers an intense and harmonious sensory experience, purely reflecting the strength and grace of the volcanic soil from which it originates.

Color

Visually, it appears a bright ruby red with slight garnet reflections, a sign of an evolution already underway but still young and vital.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with notes of ripe red fruits, cherry and raspberry, followed by floral hints of violet and spicy accents of black pepper, licorice, and mineral notes reminiscent of lava stone. The complexity is refined and balanced, without excess.

Palate

On the palate, it is elegant, with a silky and well-integrated tannin. The vibrant acidity provides freshness, while the long and pleasantly savory finish is typical of Etna wines. Shades of red fruit and a subtle smoky note accompany the finish.

Food Pairings for Etna Rosso DOC 'Contrada Santo Spirito' 2019 - Palmento Costanzo

This Etna Rosso is a versatile companion at the table. It pairs perfectly with medium-structured and flavorful dishes, thanks to its balance of freshness and softness.

• Grilled or roasted red meats
• Fresh pasta with pork ragout or game
• Aged hard cheeses
• Sicilian cuisine dishes, such as caponata or eggplant involtini

It is also ideal for those who enjoy discovering territorial pairings, accompanying it with authentic island flavors.

Storage and Aging: how to store Etna Rosso DOC 'Contrada Santo Spirito' 2019 - Palmento Costanzo

To preserve its qualities, the Etna Rosso DOC 'Contrada Santo Spirito' 2019 - Palmento Costanzo should be stored in a cool, dark place, with a stable temperature around 14-16°C and controlled humidity. The bottle should be kept horizontally to keep the cork moist.

This is a wine with excellent aging potential: it can evolve positively for over 8-10 years, developing more complex tertiary notes of spice and tobacco over time. Those who enjoy discovering the maturity of Etna wines will have the opportunity to appreciate its evolution both today and in a few years.