Passopisciaro Contrada C Terre Siciliane IGT 2021
Passopisciaro
Andrea Franchetti's Contrada C bottling captures a single north-facing slope on Etna where volcanic soil, altitude, and ancient vines conspire to create a wine of startling clarity and smoky depth. This is not fruit-forward wine — it's terrain-forward, with smoke as a geological signature rather than a winemaking choice.
Nose
Wild red cherry and dried herbs open to a distinct volcanic mineral note — almost sulfurous — with hints of crushed violets and a wisp of woodsmoke. There's an iron-like quality that speaks directly to the lava-rich soils.
Palate
Medium-bodied with electric acidity and fine-grained tannins. Red currant, pomegranate, and a saline minerality dominate, while a subtle smoky-earthy quality develops in the mid-palate. The Nerello Mascalese grape's transparency lets the terroir announce itself clearly.
Finish
Long and mineral-driven, with lingering cherry, dried herb, and a volcanic ash quality that defines Etna reds at their best.
- Varietal
- Nerello Mascalese
- Blend
- 100% Nerello Mascalese
- Vineyards
- Contrada Chiappilusi, north slope of Mount Etna, 650m elevation
- Alcohol
- 15.0%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
Food Pairing
The wine's bright acidity and mineral core cut through the rich, sweet-sour caponata, while its subtle smokiness pairs naturally with the char on the grilled swordfish.
The late Andrea Franchetti established Passopisciaro in 2000 on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, vinifying single contrade to map the volcano's terroir through the lens of Nerello Mascalese.
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