Feature Region - Etna, Sicily
LAVA & MAGMA
Today, we’re bringing you the wines of the controlled appellation of Etna. To this day, lofty Mount Etna remains an active volcano. Between rather ominous eruptions, lava and magma bubbling below the surface, the volcanic rock extending across the slopes instills in the soils of the mountain a Nick Cannon-esque fertility.
volcanic rock and fruit clarity
While the range of indigenous Sicilian varieties found on the country’s famous boot is vast, Etna keeps it simple with three wines: Etna Rosso, Bianco and Rosato (AKA Italian Rosé). It’s instead the epic range of soils, elevations and aspects that bring a thrilling variety to these wines from site to site.
Comprising at least 80% Carricante, Etna Biancos are ideal for our spicy Aussie climate. Think refreshing lime, lemon and mineral structure with nutty undertones that make for seafood pairing perfection.
Etna Rossos comprise at least 80% Nerello Mascalese, with the balance primarily made up of Nerello Cappuccio. Deceptively pale, like its northern friend Nebbiolo, these refined yet gutsy reds explode with ballsy sour cherry and florals, granitic notes, grippy tannin and a whiff of smoke.
Comprising at least 80% Carricante, Etna Biancos are ideal for our spicy Aussie climate. Think refreshing lime, lemon and mineral structure with nutty undertones that make for seafood pairing perfection.
Etna Rossos comprise at least 80% Nerello Mascalese, with the balance primarily made up of Nerello Cappuccio. Deceptively pale, like its northern friend Nebbiolo, these refined yet gutsy reds explode with ballsy sour cherry and florals, granitic notes, grippy tannin and a whiff of smoke.
Etna Rosatos use the same red grapes for prettily floral, raspberry-esque Rosé ranging from bright strawberry to pale salmon.
Both Mediterranean, the climates of Sicily and much of Australia run parallel, presenting a world of perfect pairing possibilities. We’ve certainly enjoyed sourcing (and sipping) complementary Etna producers for our fine Sometimes Always fellows.
Notable new-wave operations include lo-fi Belgian Frank Cornelissen, producing Etna Rosso with a future mindset. Tenuta Fessina lean into classic techniques to shape traditional white and red blends that run the gamut of Etna traits, from volcanic rock and fruit clarity to herbs and acidic refreshment.
Both Mediterranean, the climates of Sicily and much of Australia run parallel, presenting a world of perfect pairing possibilities. We’ve certainly enjoyed sourcing (and sipping) complementary Etna producers for our fine Sometimes Always fellows.
Notable new-wave operations include lo-fi Belgian Frank Cornelissen, producing Etna Rosso with a future mindset. Tenuta Fessina lean into classic techniques to shape traditional white and red blends that run the gamut of Etna traits, from volcanic rock and fruit clarity to herbs and acidic refreshment.
Between rather ominous eruptions, lava and magma bubbling below the surface, the volcanic rock extending across the slopes instills in the soils of the mountain a Nick Cannon-esque fertility.