Nerello Mascalese – The soul of Etna in a grape

N e r e l l o M a s c a l e s e T h e s o u l o f E t n a i n a g r a p e

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On the majestic slopes of the volcano Etna, where the earth is shaped by lava and ash, one of Sicily’s most fascinating grape varieties thrives:

Nerello Mascalese.

This ancient, native grape embodies the unique connection between man, nature and terroir – a place where viticulture and volcanic energy become one.

Named after the municipality of Mascali in the Catania region, Nerello Mascalese has developed a deep understanding of the region over the centuries. The grape feels at home in the barren, mineral volcanic soil, where it adapts to the demanding climatic conditions with patience and dedication. Its late ripening requires patience, but the result is worth every effort.

A wine with elegance and character


The wines made from Nerello Mascalese are a reflection of their origins. Its delicate, almost translucent ruby ​​red color is deceptive, because a world full of aromas unfolds in the glass: ripe strawberries, tart cherries, spicy cinnamon and a subtle hint of leather. The volcanic earth leaves traces that are reflected in mineral nuances and a refreshing acidity.

With fine tannins and a moderate alcohol content, these wines are elegant and balanced. They appeal to both connoisseurs who appreciate their complexity and connoisseurs who simply want to fall in love with the beauty of Sicily.

A touch of tradition and modernity


Nerello Mascalese is often blended with the Nerello Cappuccio grape variety, especially in the wines of the famous Etna DOC.

Here, Cappuccio, with its deep color and powerful structure, complements the delicate grace of Mascalese. But the grape variety is increasingly gaining recognition as a soloist, a testament to its versatility and potential.

A journey of the senses


When you enjoy a glass of Nerello Mascalese, it is as if you are embarking on a journey – over the fertile, barren volcanic slopes, through the rocky vineyards and into the hearts of the Sicilian winemakers who nurture this extraordinary grape with passion and tradition.

The wine goes perfectly with the authentic flavors of Sicilian cuisine:

succulent pasta dishes, spicy cheeses or even oily fish refined with olive oil and fresh herbs.

A gift from nature


Nerello Mascalese is more than just a grape – it is a gift from nature, an expression of Sicily’s wild beauty and cultural diversity. Its wines tell stories of patience, dedication and the unwavering connection between man and earth.

For all those who want to taste the essence of Sicily, Nerello Mascalese is the key to a world of authenticity and pleasure. A wine that not only delights the palate but also touches the soul.

Facts and Hystorie

The Nerello Mascalese is much more than just a grape variety – it is a symbol of Sicily’s rich winemaking history and the region’s unwavering commitment to its soil and traditions. Named after the municipality of Mascali in the province of Catania, it reflects the volcanic landscape and cultural diversity of Sicily. This grape is known for its elegance and complexity, which it expresses both in cuvées and as a single-varietal wine.

Origin and significance

The Nerello Mascalese is mainly cultivated on the north-eastern slopes of Sicily, especially near Mascali, where it is said to have originated. Its relationship to the Calabrian white wine variety Mantonico Bianco suggests a deep-rooted history in southern Italy. At the same time, genetic studies show a close relationship with Sangiovese, suggesting that Nerello Mascalese is the result of a cross between Sangiovese and a previously unknown variety.

Its superiority over the closely related Nerello Cappuccio is undisputed. While the Cappuccio grape is often used to add color and alcohol to wines such as the famous Etna DOC, the Nerello Mascalese represents sophistication and depth. It is also one of the three grape varieties used in the Sicilian classic Corvo Rosso.

Sensory profile

The organoleptic characteristics of a single-varietal Nerello Mascalese wine are as exceptional as the grape itself:

Color:

Ruby red with subtle garnet reflections that indicate ripeness.

Aroma:

An intense scent of red berries, accompanied by delicate floral notes, a hint of spices and subtle nuances of vanilla and tobacco. Liquorice rounds off the profile with a lingering presence.

Taste:

Dry, tannic, yet harmonious with a strong body and long persistence. On the palate, the wine appears more mature than its fresh bouquet suggests.
These characteristics are particularly evident when the grape is processed in the traditional way – a tribute to the centuries-old techniques of Sicilian winemakers.

Versatility and future

Nerello Mascalese is a grape that impresses with its aging potential. It is equally suitable for single-varietal wines as for cuvées, where it stands out for its finesse and structure.

It shows its class in particular in the wines of the Etna DOC:

here elegance, acidity and volcanic minerality merge to create an unmistakable pleasure.

An expression of the region
Every glass of Nerello Mascalese tells the story of Etna, its fertile, mineral-rich soils and the winemakers who work with passion and respect for nature. It is a wine that not only delights the palate, but also captures the landscape of Sicily, its history and its people.

For wine lovers,

Nerello Mascalese is more than just a drink – it is an invitation to discover the soul of Sicily and to celebrate the uniqueness of a region that, like no other, bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.

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