What wine is Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia
The Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia is a Sicilian red wine of great character, an authentic expression of the volcanic slopes of Etna. It is made from a skillful blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, two native Etnean grape varieties that give the wine elegance, structure, and complexity. It is a full-bodied, balanced, and long-lasting red, designed for both lovers of structured wines and those who want to discover the finesse of a high-altitude red with an authentic taste.
Vintage details
The 2017 vintage was characterized by favorable weather conditions, with dry summers and sunny days that favored optimal grape ripening. The over fifty-year-old vines of Monte Gorna produced concentrated and aromatic bunches, from which a wine with an intense, balanced profile and remarkable aging potential is born. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, contributes to giving the wine freshness and a pleasant sapidity that enhances its elegance.
Winemaking and aging
After manual selection of the grapes, fermentation takes place for about three weeks at a controlled temperature (22 °C), with a maceration that allows for optimal extraction of color and tannins. This is followed by a long aging period: 24 months in second and third-passage oak barriques and a further 12 months in the bottle. This process allows the wine to evolve harmoniously, softening the tannins and developing complex and well-integrated aromas.
Tasting notes
The Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia captivates with its balance and sensory depth, revealing all the richness of its terroir.
Color
Visually, it presents a deep and bright ruby red, with slight garnet reflections that announce its maturity and elegance.
Nose
The bouquet is complex and refined, with notes of ripe red fruits, sweet spices, and light toasted nuances derived from wood aging. Aromas of cherry, plum, and licorice emerge, enveloped by a delicate mineral trace typical of Etna wines.
Palate
On the palate, it is broad, harmonious, and enveloping. The tannins – the natural substances that give structure and longevity to the wine – are firm but silky. The gustatory persistence is long and pleasant, with a finish that recalls the fruity and spicy sensations perceived on the nose.
What dishes to pair with Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia
This Etna Rosso Riserva is a versatile wine at the table, ideal for accompanying robust and flavorful dishes. It pairs perfectly with:
- grilled or roasted red meats, such as lamb and beef;
- game with a strong flavor;
- aged cheeses and Sicilian pecorino;
- traditional Mediterranean dishes rich in aromas and spices.
Also excellent as a meditation wine, to be enjoyed with company or on special occasions.
Storage and aging: how to store Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia wine
To best preserve its quality, this wine should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, preferably at a constant temperature of about 14-16 °C. The bottle should be kept horizontally, so as to keep the cork always moist and ensure a proper seal. Thanks to its structure and the long aging already carried out, it can evolve further in the bottle for several years, developing new and fascinating aromatic nuances. It is therefore a long-aging wine, perfect for those who love to discover how time enriches its complexity.
Nicosia
The history of the Nicosia winery The Nicosia Winery represents a magnificent example of how wine tradition and innovation can coexist harmoniously. Founded in the early 1900s, the winery has preserved the legacy of generations, transforming itself over time with an eye towards the future. Produ...
How to best open and serve Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia, it is important to leave the bottle upright for at least 24 hours. This allows the natural sediments, typical of aged Etna red wines, to settle at the bottom, preventing them from mixing at the time of serving.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The optimal tasting temperature for this elegant Etna Rosso DOC Riserva is between 18°C and 20°C. If the bottle is stored in a cellar, remove it about an hour before serving to allow a slight increase in temperature. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as they could alter the wine's aromatic complexity.
3. Opening the bottle
Use a lever or screw pull corkscrew, avoiding tools that could damage the cork. Follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the capsule, cutting it below the ring.
- Clean the neck of the bottle with a clean, dry cloth.
- Insert the corkscrew spiral into the center of the cork and twist slowly to extract it without jerking.
If the cork resists (common in aged wines), use a two-step corkscrew for a more delicate extraction.
4. Inspection and first taste
Once the bottle is open, smell the cork and check that it does not emit unpleasant or musty odors. Pour a small amount of Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia into the glass and proceed with a first taste to ensure the wine is in perfect condition.
5. Decanting and oxygenation
Being a structured and complex wine, the Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 'Monte Gorna Vecchie Viti' 2017 - Nicosia benefits greatly from decanting. Here's how to proceed:
- Slow decanting: slowly pour the wine into a carafe, leaving the sediments in the bottle.
- Oxygenation time: let the wine rest in the decanter for about 45-60 minutes before serving.
This phase enhances the mineral aromas and spicy notes typical of Etna reds, making the sip more harmonious and profound.
6. Serving
Serve the wine in large glasses, preferably thin crystal, to encourage proper oxygenation. Pour small quantities at a time and gently swirl the glass to appreciate the evolution of the aromas. This Etna Rosso DOC Riserva 2017 magnificently accompanies red meat dishes, game, or aged cheeses.
7. Storage after opening
If you do not consume the entire bottle, immediately reseal it with an airtight stopper and store the wine in a cool, dark place. You can keep it for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, then bring it back to room temperature before consumption. For longer storage, the use of a vacuum pump or a wine preservation system is highly recommended.