2021 Torre Mora Scalunera Etna Rosso, Sicily

Torre Mora Scalunera Etna Rosso is an elegant and finely structured red from the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, a region whose wines have gained international attention for their finesse and mineral depth. Torre Mora is a certified organic estate owned by Piccini, with vineyards perched high on the northern slopes of the volcano, where the combination of altitude, volcanic soils and Mediterranean climate creates wines of remarkable freshness and aromatic lift.

The Scalunera Etna Rosso is crafted primarily from Nerello Mascalese, the signature red grape of Etna, with a small portion of Nerello Cappuccio adding colour and body. These varieties thrive in the black volcanic sands and rocky basalt of the estate’s terraced vineyards, many of which are planted at altitudes exceeding 600 metres. The cool nights and warm days of this unique microclimate slow ripening, allowing for delicate aromatics, bright acidity and refined tannins.

Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted before a gentle fermentation in stainless steel to preserve varietal purity. The wine is then aged partly in large oak casks and partly in smaller French oak barrels, striking a balance between fruit expression and savoury complexity.

In the glass, it is a pale ruby red with aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, rose petal and blood orange, layered with hints of spice, crushed rock and dried herbs. The palate is light to medium-bodied yet full of flavour, with fine, chalky tannins, vibrant acidity and a long, mineral-driven finish that speaks of its volcanic origins.

This wine is a natural match for Sicilian classics such as caponata, grilled swordfish with herbs, or pasta alla Norma. It also works beautifully with roast chicken, game birds or a platter of aged pecorino and salumi. Drink now for its aromatic charm or cellar for 6 to 8 years for more savoury, earthy complexity.