Giovanni Rosso Etna Rosso 2017

This is an exciting wine from Etna on the island of Sicily, made by winemakers originally hailing from Piedmont, but also filled with a passion for Etna rosso wines. Giovanni Rosso has the family-owned winery located in the Serralunga d'Alba DOCG of Barolo, and Giovanni Rosso winery in Castiglione di Sicilia. The Rosso family has owned vineyards and grown grapes since the 1890s and began producing and bottling wine under the Giovanni Rosso label in 1995. 

The inaugural release was 2016, and this is a superb follow-up. Giovanni Rosso Etna Rosso is made of the local Nerello Mascalese grape blended with small batches of other local grape varieties, planted in 1975 in Solicchiata - Montedolce (40+ year old vines). Harvest takes place with organic methods in the middle of October and the wine is ultimately aged in French oak. Alcohol: 13.5% vol. Only 1200 cases made. 

The aromas are fine and deep, introduced by Mediterranean citrusy sensations, followed by violet, bergamot, wet stones, forest leaves and elegant hints of white pepper. The palate is juicy with progressive delicate tannins and vibrant acidity. A refined and savory finish opens up as the wine aerates in the glass. Pair with beef filet, mushroom soup with croutons and fine Italian or French cheeses.

Sicily is Italy’s southernmost region and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. For more than 2500 years, Sicily (Sicilia in Italian) has been a significant center of Mediterranean viniculture, although the reputation and style of its wines have changed significantly over that time.