Grape · Mount Etna, Sicily
Nerello Mascalese
neh-REL-lo mah-ska-LAY-zeh
Etna's Pinot
Pale, scented, high-acid reds from the slopes of an active volcano. Often compared to nebbiolo or pinot — it is neither, and that is the pleasure.
- red cherry
- smoke
- orange peel
- herbs
- ash
Profile
Bodymedium
Acidhigh
Tanninmedium
Sugardry
Contrade (lava-flow vineyards) at different altitudes make Etna Rosso a Burgundian conversation: north slope vs. south, 600 metres vs. 900. Nerello Cappuccio is the blending partner.
The wines can be pale enough to look weak and then grip like a proper red. Serve them slightly cool, in a wide glass.
Grilled fish with tomatoes, pasta with anchovy, and mushroom dishes.
At the table
Service
57–61 °F (14–16 °C) in a Burgundy bowl.
