Pietradolce Etna Rosso DOC 2021
Pietradolce
Pietradolce farms some of the highest vineyards on Etna's north slope, and this entry-level Rosso punches well above its price. Nerello Mascalese shows its best here — transparent, mineral-driven, alive with tension. It's a red wine that feels like it was drawn from the rock itself.
Nose
Red cherry and wild strawberry dominate, underscored by a distinctive minerality that speaks of volcanic soil. Violet and dried herb notes add complexity, with a subtle smoky quality emerging with air.
Palate
Light to medium-bodied but intensely focused, with tart cherry and cranberry offset by a savory, almost stony minerality. Fine-grained tannins provide structure without weight. A hint of dried rose petal and gentle earthiness carry through.
Finish
Lingering and lifted, with cherry, volcanic mineral, and a whisper of violet that refuses to let go.
- Varietal
- Nerello Mascalese
- Blend
- 90% Nerello Mascalese, 10% Nerello Cappuccio
- Vineyards
- North slope of Mount Etna, Contrada Rampante, 700-900m elevation, volcanic soils
- Alcohol
- 14%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
Food Pairing
Chargrilled swordfish steaks alongside Sicilian caponata — the sweet-sour vegetable medley bridges the wine's fruit and mineral elements while the char complements its volcanic character.
Grown on the volcanic north slope of Mount Etna at elevations above 700 meters by Michele Faro, whose ungrafted pre-phylloxera vines root directly into ancient lava flows and ash-rich terraces.
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