At a glance

Producer

I Custodi

Region

Etna, Sicily, Italy

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$50

Tasting profile

Fresh red cherry, wild herbs, volcanic earth, moderate spice, with structured tannins.

Evolution: With time, will develop more complex notes of leather, tobacco, and forest floor.

At peak: Balanced complexity combining ripe fruit, mineral depth, and integrated oak with smooth finish.

Structure

Acidity

High

Tannins

Medium to Firm

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

15+ years given quality and vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2046

Optimal window

2024 to 2049

Current status

Young but approachable

Current condition

Intense primary fruit aromas with firm tannic structure developing

2021 in Etna is a very good vintage with excellent acidity and phenolic ripeness. The volcanic soils provide mineral intensity and strong structure that will support extended aging. Optimal drinking window reflects typical aging trajectory for top Etna Rosso wines from Nerello Mascalese at this price and quality level.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, game birds, mushroom risotto, aged pecorino cheese, and medium-spiced Italian dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow the wine to open up and soften the tannins for a smoother palate experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

The producer employs organic viticulture focusing on minimal intervention, hand harvesting, cover cropping to improve soil health, low-impact natural farming without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, water conservation methods, and uses lightweight glass bottles to reduce packaging impact.

I Custodi is recognized for sustainable winegrowing on Etna, using organic farming practices that protect local biodiversity. The focus on manual labor, minimal chemical use, and eco-friendly packaging contributes positively to environmental stewardship. While the wine is exported globally, the natural volcanic terrior and locally focused operations lower carbon footprint relative to large industrial producers.