2022 Firriato - Etna Rosso DOC Le Sabbie Dell'Etna (750ml)

Firriato's presence on Mount Etna reflects the winery's broader mission of showcasing Sicily's most singular terroirs, alongside its founding estate near Trapani and vineyards on the island of Favignana. The Cavanera estate, on the volcano's north-eastern slope, gave the winery an early foothold in Etna winemaking, a region defined by cold winters, dramatic diurnal shifts, and soils unlike anywhere else on the island. As with all of Firriato's holdings, farming here follows organic practices, part of the family's long-standing commitment to protecting the land they work.

Le Sabbie dell'Etna Rosso is built from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, native red varieties grown around 700 meters above sea level on loamy, sandy volcanic soil rich in phosphorus, manganese, and iron. The grapes are hand-picked in mid to late October, then fermented in steel tanks at a controlled temperature for about two weeks. The wine matures in large durmast casks for roughly a year before spending several more months resting in bottle ahead of release.

In the glass it shows a bright ruby red with violet hues, offering aromas of cinnamon, black pepper, blackcurrant, and black cherry, with a touch of dried violet. The palate is vivacious and warm, with smooth tannins and a long, juicy finish. It pairs well with grilled meats, cured salumi, and hard aged cheeses.