Mount Etna is home to one of my favorite wine regions in Sicily, the Etna DOC. At this month’s in person tasting at the Sutter Club in Sacramento, CA we tasted 2017 Setteporte Etna Rosso & Alta mora Etna Bianco. (
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The first two wines from the Tesh Talk Box this month are excellent examples of both red and white wines from the region. (
2017 Setteporte Etna Rosso
Sicily, Italy
Nerello Mescalese Nerello Cappuccio
ABV 14.5%
750ML
Coming from the town of Biancavilla, within Etna DOC, this family owned winery is sure to become a favorite. The estate has been passed down from previous generations within the Portale family. Currently, Piero is taking the lead and directing the winery to showcase the unique volcanic soil that Etna is known for. Setteporte takes pride in being certified organic.
This wine sees 12 months in French barriques, followed by a minimum of 8 months in the bottle, prior to being released. The aromas burst with notes of cranberry, bay leaves, and tobacco. The palate is just as delightful with flavors of pomegranate and chocolate. You can expect the finish to be dry and long accompanied by fine tannins. Pair this with traditional Sicilian fare like Caponata.
2018 Alta Mora Etna Bianco
Etna, Sicily, Italy
100% Carricante
ABV 12.5%
750ML
The Cusumano winery was established in 2001, when brothers Alberto and Diego, took over the management of the company from their father, Francesco. From day one, the philosophy behind Cusumano has been to emphasize the importance of terroir knowledge, investment in innovative technology, and above all, passion for winemaking. Alta Mora is a new winery from the Cusumano family! These grapes are grown and harvested on the slopes of the active volcano, Mt. Etna, in Sicily!
The wine stays on its fine lees for four months in stainless steel! The wine is then given six months in bottle prior to release! There are notes of ripe apple, white flowers, lemon zest, and ginger! You get a real good sense of place with the salinity on this wine and that volcanic soil and the role it plays starts to make sense! Pair this delightful wine with shrimp scampi!