Graci Etna Rosso '22

Sicily has a colorful yet mysterious reputation, a land of vast diversity and contradiction. In no category is this more perfectly represented than by wine, with the inky, robust wines of western Sicily contrasting with the oxidized white wines of Marsala, the fruity, ripe wines of Vittoria in the southeast, and finally the ethereal, unique wines originating from the live volcano that looms over Catania on the eastern shore. Graci, situated on the north slope of Mount Etna at Passopisciaro, is found in an area where viticulture dates back several thousand years. Their vineyards sit at an altitude between 600 and 1,000 meters above sea level. Planting density ranges from 6,000 to 10,000 vines per hectare. Many of the vines are still on original rootstock, ungrafted, having never been affected by the phylloxera scourge thanks to the unique nature of the volcanic soils.

At Graci, young Alberto Aiello Graci remains steadfast in his respect for local traditions as well as the distinct nature of each vintage and only cultivates traditional varieties indigenous to Mount Etna: the red grapes Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, and white grapes Carricante and Catarratto. Intervention of any kind is extremely limited, both in the vineyard and in the cellar. To preserve the unique balance and vital energy of the soil, herbicides are eschewed.

The Etna Rosso is 100% Nerello Mascalese sourced from the northeastern slopes of Etna in Passopisciaro, at 600 to almost 700 meters above sea level. The soils are volcanic and almost sandy in some parts. The grapes are hand harvested, and maceration lasts for 30 days. The grapes are fermented in concrete tanks, and the wine is aged for 18 months in concrete.

Quintessential Etna, with notes of high-toned red fruit, rose petals, and spice. The wine is fresh and medium bodied, with spice and bitter notes that balance the fruit. Pair this wine with pappardelle and a short-rib ragu and be transported to higher elevations.