Graci Etna Rosato 2022

Description

Alberto Graci’s grandfather used to grow grapes and make wine in central Sicily. In line with the times, he produced quantity over quality. On his death Alberto returned from his life as investment banker in Milan to take over the vinous reins, but in his way. Alberto sold his grandfather’s land, and bought vineyards on Etna thus returning to his Sicilian roots, but on a part of the island where the sun is tempered by altitude – 600+ metres above sea level (m.a.s.l), the soils are volcanic (obviously!), and there are old, ungrafted vineyards. Alberto with his sister Elena farm their vineyards on the north face of Mt Etna, at Arcuria, Passsopisciaro. Fifteen hectares are planted to Nerello Mascalese and 2.5 to Carricante and Catarratto. Part of the vineyard is ungrafted ‘alberello’ (bush vines) at a total density of 10,000 per hectare. Graci also own an 80 year old vineyard (bush trained) in Contrada Feudo di Mezzo, Passopisciaro at 600 metres above sea level (m.a.s.l)  In Contrada Barbabecchi at 1000 – 1100 m.a.s.l. Graci own a 1.5 hectare vineyard planted about 100 years ago which is harvested in November!

The most recent Etna eruption occurred in December 2015, and the threat of a serious eruption requires a certain outlook says Alberto “We are fatalists, we don’t care. It’s normal for us”. It is the complexity of the volcanic soils which contributes much to the unique minerality and elegance of the wines of Etna. ‘Etna is a special place,’ says Graci, who today runs the estate with his sister Elena. ‘We only cultivate traditional varieties indigenous to Mount Etna and aim to respect local traditions as well as the distinct characters of each vintage. The land decides, not us. We believe that only by listening carefully and responding to the expressions of Nature in our territory can great wines be born. Great because they are true.’

This wine is 100% nerello mascalese, sourced from a vineyard in the sub-zone of Passopisciaro in the Comune of Castiglione di Sicilia. The vines are bushed trained on the north-eastern face of Mt Etna at 600 m.a.s.l. at a density of 6,300 vines per Ha. The brown soils are of volcanic origin, rich in fossils, iron and sand, with a high nitrogen content. The wine is fermented with indigenous yeasts in cement tanks following destemming and a light crush with no maceration. The wine remains on lees in cement tanks for six months prior to bottling.

100% Nerello Mascalese. Fine bright salmon in colour, the bouquet is aromatic yet subtle, with notes of orange skin, blossom and red currant. The palate is precise with a tight line of acid. Fresh citrus finish (orange/clementine skin) and beautifully dry and elegant. Wow one gorgeous rose packed with flavour and freshness! Now under DIAM cork. 12.5% alc.

New 2022 vintage is here and delicious as ever!

Reviews for 2021: 93 Points, Decanter “Vinified and aged in cement tanks, this is one of the finest Etna Rosato encountered this year. Softly pressed, it has a light summer berry aroma with a stony edge, while in the mouth it is intense, juicy and mineral, displaying beautiful cherry fruit and fantastic balance.”

91 points, James Suckling “Very pale straw-orange color with aromas of cherry stones, pomelo pith, yellow plums and some dried flowers. Saline undertones. It’s crisp and fresh, with a hint of tannin texture and medium body. Dry and focused.”

RRP $49   Our Special Price $42.99 when you buy 6 or more of this wine