Torre Mora Chiuse Vidalba Etna Rosso DOC

Key characteristics:

Torre Mora Chiuse Vidalba Etna Rosso DOC is a captivating expression of Sicily’s active Etna volcano, crafted from indigenous Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio grapes grown on unique volcanic soils at high altitudes. This wine embodies the essence of “heroic viticulture,” reflecting the extreme conditions and rich minerality of its terroir. Produced by Piccini 1882 with a commitment to organic and sustainable viticulture, it showcases a philosophy of “one grape variety – one territory,” allowing the wine to authentically tell the story of its dramatic origin.

Tasting Notes:

• Variety: A masterful blend of 95% Nerello Mascalese, which provides structure, darker fruit characteristics, and firm tannins, complemented by 5% Nerello Cappuccio, contributing elegant perfume, lifted acidity, and bright fruitiness.
• Appearance: A captivating purple-red color.
• Aroma: A rich and complex nose, revealing fragrant notes of mulberry, strawberry jam, and wild blueberries, intertwined with hints of myrrh, carob, walnut husk, fine wood, cocoa, and subtle spicy undertones of Spanish cedar and tar. Mineral notes of crushed rocks and ash also emerge, adding depth.
• Taste: The palate offers a sublime fusion of coffee and blueberry, with a soft and sweet entry that evolves into a framework of fine, smooth tannins. Expect vibrant red fruit, wild strawberries, and cherries, balanced by juicy acidity and a distinctive mineral texture, often with a mildly salty finish. Undertones of aniseed, Mediterranean herbs, and balsamic nuances further enhance its complexity.
• Region: Hailing from the Etna DOC, this wine originates from vineyards situated on the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, at elevations typically ranging from 1,000 to 3,600 feet (300 to 1000 meters). The unique terroir is characterized by loose, fertile volcanic soils, varying lava flows, and significant diurnal temperature shifts, imparting distinctive mineral and spicy characteristics to the grapes.
• Pairing: An ideal companion for robust meat dishes and rich truffle risotto. It also pairs beautifully with medium-seasoned cheeses such as Pecorino or Caciocavallo, as well as various pasta and chicken dishes, or even fatty tuna.

Overall impression:

This Etna Rosso is a wine of remarkable elegance and profound character, offering a harmonious balance of vibrant fruit, savory notes, and volcanic minerality. It is a testament to the extraordinary terroir of Mount Etna, delivering an unforgettable sensory experience.

Extra notes:

• The dry-lava-stone walls that define the ancient borders of the vineyards in the Etna region are recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
• Piccini 1882, the producer, is a historic Tuscan winery that has expanded its estates across various prestigious Italian wine regions, including the acquisition of Torre Mora on Mount Etna.
• Etna Rosso wines, particularly those from Nerello Mascalese, are often compared to fine Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo due to their light to medium body, elegant structure, high acidity, and complex aromatic profiles.
• The volcanic soils of Etna have historically rendered vines immune to phylloxera, allowing for the presence of ancient, often ungrafted vineyards, which represent an invaluable viticultural heritage.