What kind of wine is Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2021 - Federico Graziani?

The Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2021 - Federico Graziani originates from the northern slopes of Etna, in the historic Contrada Feudo di Mezzo, one of the denomination's most suitable areas. It is a Sicilian red wine of great personality, the result of a careful selection of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, with small percentages of Alicante and Francisi, native grape varieties that reflect the identity of the territory.

In the glass, the "Rosso di Mezzo" expresses the authenticity of the volcanic soils and the charm of ancient vineyards, many of which are still ungrafted (i.e., not grafted). It is a medium-bodied wine, elegant and balanced, capable of combining mineral freshness with aromatic intensity, ideal for those seeking a refined Etna red with a strong connection to its land of origin.

Vintage Details

2021 was a balanced vintage for Etna: mild temperatures and well-distributed rainfall favored regular grape ripening. The thermal excursions between day and night, typical of high altitudes, intensified the wine's aromas and tannic finesse, giving this version of 'Rosso di Mezzo' particular harmony and aromatic clarity. The harvest, carried out manually, allowed for the selection of the best bunches, preserving the fruit's purity and natural freshness.

Vinification and Aging

Winemaking follows the principles of spontaneity and respect for the territory. Fermentation takes place in open vats with indigenous yeasts, naturally present on the grape skins, to enhance the authenticity of the terroir. This is followed by a delicate maceration, useful for extracting color and aromas without force.

Aging takes place for about 24 months in steel, in contact with the so-called noble lees (the natural sediments of the wine), which enrich the taste profile with softness and complexity. The result is a perfectly balanced Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2021, where freshness and structure coexist in equilibrium.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, it presents a luminous ruby red, crossed by garnet reflections that anticipate its elegance. The transparency, typical of Nerello Mascalese, reveals a fine wine that favors freshness over power.

Nose

The aroma is complex and multifaceted. Notes of fresh red fruits like cherry and raspberry blend with hints of aromatic herbs, floral nuances, and a delicate spiciness. In the background, mineral notes and a smoky trace emerge, the unmistakable signature of Etna wines.

Taste

On the palate, the Rosso di Mezzo 2021 is balanced and harmonious. The tannins – the natural substances present in the grape skin that give structure – are subtle and well integrated, while the volcanic freshness provides vibrancy and pleasantness. The finish is persistent, clean, and of great elegance, with fruity and mineral returns.

What to pair with Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2021 - Federico Graziani

This Etna Rosso pairs easily with Mediterranean cuisine, proving very versatile at the table.

• Ideal with flavorful first courses such as pasta with meat ragù or Etna mushrooms.
• Perfect with grilled white and red meats, but also with light game dishes.
• Interesting with medium-aged cheeses and local cured meats.

Thanks to its elegance, it can also be enjoyed on its own, as a meditation wine to discover all the richness of Sicilian volcanic wines.

Storage and Aging: how to store Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2021 - Federico Graziani

To preserve the qualities of Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2021, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and at a constant temperature of around 14–16°C. The bottle should be kept horizontally, so that the cork remains moist.

This wine has an excellent aging potential: it can evolve pleasantly for 6–8 years, developing even more complex notes of spice, tobacco, and undergrowth. Those who wish to discover the depth of Etna reds over time will find in "Rosso di Mezzo" an ideal companion for their cellar.