Date Tasted: 8/2021

For many, Nerello Mascalese is considered South's Pinot Noir. It has many similarities with the noble Burgundy origin grape, like the pale colour, the firm palate and the fresh red fruits perfume with a long age-worthy potential. Add the underlying mineral character of Etna's terroir, and the result will be astonishing. 

Appearance: The colour is shiny pale ruby. 

Nose: Half-hour airing will help the wine to show up its full potential. Incredible complexity with depth and freshness delivers all the desirable aromas like crunchy raspberry and red cherry, dill and rosemary—some playful spiciness with an earthy and mineral combination, all to keep the nose into the glass.

Palate: It is firm and structured without weight. The silky tannins allow consumption even at a lower than usual temperature. Excellent balance. The acidity is high. The flavours are still showing freshness and persistence in a long, super crisp aftertaste. 

Drink or Hold: It is gratifying now but with great ageing potential for ten years or more. 

Food Pairing: The most enjoyable combination was semi-hard cheeses, olive oil, and fresh-baked bread. Tip: if you find cheese with herbs inside or outside, give it a shot.

Points: 92

Name: Versante Nord

Producer: Eduardo Torres Acosta

Variety: Nerello Mascalese

Vintage: 2016

Region: PGI Terre Siciliane, Sicily, Italy

Alcohol: 14%

Retail Price: 29€

Serving temperature: 15-18 C°

Drink it until 2031