Medium Body, Dry (Nerello Mascalese). DOC. Alc 13%.
Winery's classic line.
17 + / 20 Jancis Robinson. " Pale ruby. A nose of stones, cherry and cranberry with a whiff of smoke. Gorgeous lightness of touch on the palate and with beautiful, chalky tannins. Elegant and fine and structured by lots of acidity." Drinking window = 2022 – 2030. (WS; 24 Aug 2022)
TASTING NOTES: Classic volcanic nose (mineral, crushed rocks, hints of ash or smoke) with some cherry and berry reminiscent of Sangiovese, plus more earthy notes like a Pinot Nero* and some floral character that makes you think of Langhe Nebbiolo; very well-balanced and elegant; opens up in the glass.
For a more complex interpretation of this important Etna grape, try the Archineri or special selection (Barbagalli, Contrada Rampante, Contrada Santo Spirito).
*Chris says "if you like fruity new world style Pinot this should be a hit and with the extra acidity and structure this will be a great pairing for a BBQ".
"A model small estate making top-level authentically regional wines from mostly old vines, including several pre-phylloxera parcels" begins the write-up by Master Sommelier John Szabo in his fabulous 2016 book "Volcanic Wines - Salt, Grit and Power".
The passage continues "Michele Faro's grandfather grew grapes and made wine on Etna, and some of the oldest parcels were in family hands, so he got off to a running start in 2005. Vineyards are on the north side, all above 600m: tiny Barbagalli with gnarled centenary bush-trained Nerello Mascalese is the highest and most precious, yielding succulent, spectacularly balanced wines, with endless finish. Cru Archineri is nearly as impressive, also from old vines planted a few metres below Barbagalli. Steely, flinty-mineral Archineri Bianco is from 10-year-old+ Carricante near Milo on Erna's east side. Infinitely drinkable Etna Rosso from younger albarello-trained vines is well proportioned with delicate red fruit. Purpose-made Etna Rosato from 40-year-old trellised vines rounds out the superb range."