2016 Calabretta, Massimiliano - Nerello Mascalese Vigne Vecchie (750ml)

Old vines cultivated on Mount Etna’s ash-rich volcanic slopes concentrate intense minerality and bright red fruit in the 2016 Calabretta Nerello Mascalese Vigne Vecchie. Farming without heavy oak extraction preserves the grape’s natural silk texture, allowing graphite, crushed stone, and subtle herbal tones to anchor the aromatic profile behind bright cherry, wild strawberry, and a whisper of rose petal.

The medium-bodied palate balances brisk acidity with tightly wound, finely grained tannins that layer structure without adding heaviness. That stony foundation extends through a lengthy finish marked by persistent red berry character and a dry spice undertone. While currently accessible, the vintage’s firm acid and integrated alcohol framework support steady evolution over three to five years in the cellar. Raising the temperature to 60–64°F (16–18°C) and pulling the cork half an hour before pouring unlocks fuller aroma development.

• Food Pairings: Naturally complements grilled herb-lamb chops, roasted wild mushrooms, slow-simmered tomato pastas, and aged pecorino. Equally suited to seared tuna cuts, Mediterranean vegetable preparations, and lean poultry dishes.
• Serving Note: Decant for 30–60 minutes to integrate early tannins and brighten the violet and citrus-peel notes.

This single-vineyard release illustrates how Etna’s fractured basalt terrain shapes Nerello Mascalese into a wine that maintains structural integrity alongside vivid varietal transparency.