What kind of wine is Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2022 - Federico Graziani?

The Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2022 - Federico Graziani is a Sicilian red wine originating from the northern slopes of Etna, in the Feudo di Mezzo district. It is primarily made from Nerello Mascalese with a small proportion of Nerello Cappuccio, native grape varieties that produce a wine of great finesse and authenticity. It has a medium, elegant body, supported by a pleasant mineral freshness and subtle tannins reminiscent of the volcanic sands of its origin.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage on Etna was characterized by a balanced climate: mild winters and regular spring rains ensured sufficient water resources to cope with the summer, which was dry but not extreme. The manual harvest allowed for the collection of perfectly ripe grapes, with an excellent balance of sugars, acidity, and aromatic compounds. The result is a wine that clearly expresses the identity of the territory and boasts a vibrant and harmonious taste profile.

Winemaking and Aging

The vinification of Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2022 involves spontaneous fermentation in open vats, thanks to the natural yeasts present on the grape skins. This phase allows for the maximum enhancement of the fruit's integrity and the grapes' original aromas. This is followed by a two-week maceration on the skins, which gives the wine structure and complexity. Aging continues for 24 months in steel tanks, in contact with the fecce nobili (i.e., inactive fermentative cells that enrich the wine with body and softness), before being completed with several months in the bottle prior to release.

Tasting Notes

The Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2022 - Federico Graziani is a wine that captivates with its balance and depth, capable of combining elegance and volcanic personality in every sip.

Color

Visually, it presents a bright ruby red with garnet reflections, indicative of a young but already complex wine.

Nose

The aroma is refined and dynamic, with notes of ripe red fruits, pomegranate, and cherry, blending with nuances of Mediterranean herbs, spicy hints, and a delicate mineral touch reminiscent of lava stone.

Palate

On the palate, it stands out for its fine and harmonious texture: the tannins are smooth yet present, the medium structure is well-balanced by a lively acidity. The finish is long, offering pleasant sensations of fruit and spices, with a savory and fresh conclusion that invites a second glass.

What dishes to pair with Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2022 - Federico Graziani

This wine pairs perfectly with Mediterranean cuisine and medium-structured white or red meats. Excellent with:

• Roast veal or pork
• First courses with ragù or porcini mushrooms
• Grilled meats and semi-aged cheeses
• Dishes based on grilled tuna or swordfish

Thanks to its versatility, it also elegantly accompanies traditional Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla Norma or Etna-style rabbit.

Storage and Aging

For those wondering how to store Etna Rosso DOC 'Rosso di Mezzo' 2022 - Federico Graziani wine, it is important to keep it in a cool place, at a constant temperature between 12 and 16 °C, away from light and vibrations. The bottle should be stored horizontally so that the cork remains moist and the wine does not oxidize. This Etna Rosso can evolve gracefully for 5-7 years, developing more complex notes and even more fascinating spicy nuances over time. A red to uncork today to appreciate its youth and fragrance, but one that will also surprise after a few years of rest in the cellar.