Glacier Field Nerello Mascalese 2017
Glacier Field · Etna, Sicily, Italy
At a glance
- Producer
- Glacier Field
- Region
- Etna, Sicily, Italy
- Grape variety
- Nerello Mascalese
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $25-$40
Tasting profile
Red cherry, wild berries, subtle earthiness, hints of volcanic minerality, light spice and floral notes
Evolution: Fruit will integrate and soften, earthiness and mineral notes will deepen, secondary notes like leather and tobacco may emerge
At peak: Complex interplay of bright fruit, volcanic minerality, and elegant spice with smooth tannins and balanced acidity
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-high, typical of volcanic soils providing freshness and aging potential
- Tannins
- Medium to medium-plus, fine-grained and slightly firm
- Alcohol
- 13.5-14%
- Aging potential
- 8-12 years; good structure for mid-term aging
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2027 to 2032
- Optimal window
- 2024 to 2030
- Current status
- Approaching early maturity
- Current condition
- Wine is showing primary fruit with developing complexity; tannins still firm but approachable
Nerello Mascalese from Etna wines with this vintage and structure typically show peak drinking 7-12 years after vintage, balancing fruit freshness with developing tertiary complexity and softened tannins.
Food pairing
Pairs excellently with roasted lamb, grilled mushrooms, aged cheeses, and earthy pasta dishes like ragù or truffle-infused plates
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-45 minutes) — Allows aeration to soften tannins and open up aromatic complexity
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Use of minimal chemical treatments, integrated pest management, hand-harvesting, water conservation efforts, and modest energy use
Though not certified organic or biodynamic, Glacier Field’s practices lean toward sustainability with emphasis on preserving vineyard health and minimizing environmental impact, though no formal certification currently.