The Nerello Mascalese
Grape
A distinguished red grape variety grown on the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily. It produces wines with a fine balance of acidity and tannins, showcasing flavors of red fruits, spices, and a distinct volcanic minerality. Nerello Mascalese is known for its elegance and aging potential, often compared to the finesse of Nebbiolo.
Nerello Mascalese
Grape History
Nerello Mascalese is a red wine grape variety indigenous to Sicily, specifically the eastern slopes of Mount Etna, an active stratovolcano and the highest peak in Italy south of the Alps. The grape is believed to have originated in the town of Mascali, giving it part of its name.
History:
Nerello Mascalese has a long and storied history dating back centuries in Sicily. It has been cultivated on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna for generations, adapting to the unique terroir and climate of the region. The grape has gained recognition for producing high-quality wines with distinct characteristics that reflect the volcanic soil and cool climate in which it thrives.
Interesting Facts:
- Nerello Mascalese is often compared to the more well-known grape variety, Pinot Noir, due to its delicate nature and the complex, nuanced wines it produces.
- This grape variety is known for its high acidity and moderate alcohol levels, making it versatile in winemaking and well-suited to aging.
- It is commonly blended with Nerello Cappuccio, another indigenous Sicilian grape, to create wines with more depth and complexity.
Where it is Grown:
Nerello Mascalese is primarily grown in the Etna DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) appellation on the slopes of Mount Etna, where vineyards are planted at varying altitudes on the volcanic soils. The combination of altitude, volcanic ash, and cool temperatures adds unique characteristics to the wines produced from this grape.
Wines:
Nerello Mascalese is mainly used to produce red wines, including Etna Rosso DOC wines, which are known for their elegance, finesse, and mineral-driven profile. These wines often exhibit flavors of red berries, spices, and minerals, with a distinctive volcanic signature.
Projected Future:
The future of Nerello Mascalese looks promising as interest in indigenous grape varieties and terroir-driven wines continues to grow. The unique qualities of wines made from this grape have captured the attention of wine enthusiasts and critics alike, leading to increased demand and recognition on the international stage. As winemakers continue to explore the full potential of Nerello Mascalese and invest in vineyard management and winemaking techniques, we can expect to see even more exceptional wines coming from this grape variety in the years to come.
Overall, Nerello Mascalese stands as a shining example of Sicily's winemaking heritage and the potential of unique grape varieties grown in distinct terroirs. Its elegant wines have earned a place among the world's finest, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Sicilian wine culture.