At a glance

Producer

Frank Cornelissen

Region

Etna, Sicily, Italy

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese-based blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70

Tasting profile

Intense earthy aromas with wild herbs, dried cherry, volcanic mineral notes, and a hint of smoke

Evolution: Will gain more red fruit complexity, floral tones, and smoother tannins over 5-10 years

At peak: Complex bouquet with profound minerality, balanced acidity and silky but gripping tannins

Structure

Acidity

High, refreshing and lively

Tannins

Medium to high, refined and somewhat rustic

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5-14% ABV

Aging potential

20+ years due to natural vineyard farming, structure, and acidity

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2046

Optimal window

2024 to 2049

Current status

Approaching early drinking phase but capable of long-term aging

Current condition

Youthful with developing complexity

The wine is made from organically or biodynamically farmed Nerello Mascalese grapes grown on volcanic soils, contributing to its longevity. The 2021 vintage on Etna is favorable for this style, allowing the wine's structural components to develop gracefully over decades.

Food pairing

Ideal with grilled lamb, roasted mushrooms, game birds, aged cheeses, and hearty pasta dishes with earthy sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To allow aeration for earthy and mineral notes to open up and to soften tannins

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 10/10

Use of natural yeasts for fermentation, minimal intervention throughout winemaking, solar energy on-site, water conservation measures employed

Frank Cornelissen is renowned for biodynamic farming on Mount Etna’s volcanic soils, emphasizing minimal intervention and environmental stewardship. This reduces environmental impact and promotes soil health, biodiversity, and natural vineyard resilience, placing this wine at the highest sustainability level.