At a glance

Producer

Cantina Larkspur Crossing

Region

Italy, Sicily

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$50

Tasting profile

Notes of red cherry, wild herbs, volcanic minerality with fresh acidity and firm tannins

Evolution: Tannins will soften over time; earthy and smoky notes will develop; fruit will gain complexity

At peak: Balanced expression of red fruit and mineral complexities with silky texture

Structure

Acidity

High

Tannins

Moderate to firm

Alcohol

13.5-14.5%

Aging potential

Good aging potential of 12-15 years due to acidity and tannin structure

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2030

Optimal window

2021 to 2030

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Good condition; youthful tannins with emerging complexity

The 2017 vintage in Sicily showed excellent conditions for Nerello Mascalese with ripe fruit and balanced acidity. The wine’s moderate tannin and high acidity support a medium to long aging curve. The optimal drinking window starts around 4 years post-vintage, allowing tannins to soften and minerality to emerge fully.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, aged pecorino cheese, and earthy mushroom dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and open the wine’s aromatic profile

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Implements water conservation, integrated pest management, limited chemical usage; solar panels for energy; uses lightweight glass bottles to reduce packaging carbon footprint

Cantina Larkspur Crossing applies sustainable viticulture focusing on resource conservation and ecosystem health, though not fully certified organic or biodynamic. Their use of renewable energy and lightweight packaging helps mitigate environmental impact. Transportation adds to carbon footprint but is managed through efficient shipping strategies.