Pietradolce Etna Rosso Vigna Barbagalli 2017 750ml

This is the top red wine made by Pietradolce, and its striking black label is meant to underline its importance in the estate portfolio. The 2017 Etna Rosso Barbagalli offers a pretty garnet color and a lean to mid-weight approach. Made with fruit from pre-phylloxera vines from one of the highest elevation vineyards in the appellation (at 950 meters above sea level), this is always a study in elegance, and the integrity of the fruit transcends most problematic vintage variations thanks to the hearty resilience of the vines and their extended root systems. This wine shows composure and equilibrium with an incredibly glossy or silky quality of fruit with berry, smoke, tar and campfire ash. That old-vine concentration and power (with 15% alcohol) also comes through clearly. Only 2,500 bottles were released.

• Country: Italy
• Region: Sicily
• Appellation: Etna
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 15.0%

Varietal

Nerello

Nerello, an indigenous grape variety thriving on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, is a captivating and unique wine varietal deserving exploration. The two primary expressions, Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, contribute to the region’s acclaimed Etna wines. Known for their versatility, Nerello grapes produce wines with vibrant acidity, moderate tannins, and an alluring spectrum of red fruit flavors, from cherries to raspberries. However, what sets Nerello apart is its ability to convey the distinctive volcanic terroir of Mount Etna. The vines’ roots delve into mineral-rich volcanic soils, imparting a unique mineral character and a profound sense of place to the wines. Nerello wines, with their elegance and volcanic edge, provide a captivating journey into Sicily’s winemaking heritage, showcasing the harmonious relationship between grape variety and terroir.