GRACI– ETNA ROSSO

Region: Sicily
Vineyard Location: on the north-eastern slopes of Etna at Passopisciaro - Castiglione di Sicilia, in the  Province of Catania.
Elevation: Between 1800 and 2100 feet above sea level
Plant Density: Between 6,000 and 10,000 vines per hectare
Soil: Dark brown in color, volcanic in origin, well-drained – almost sandy in some parts, neutral pH, not calcareous, mostly very rich in iron and nitrogen
Harvest: October 17, 2006
Yield: 40 HTL per hectare
Fermentation: temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel  fermenters, with 12 days maceration on the skins.
Aging: 12 months in stainless steel tanks, with naturally occurring malolactic fermentation, and a couple of months in large barrels.
Vintage details: On the whole, 2006 was hot and dry. This has given the wine richness, high alcohol, depth and intensity.
Varietals: Nerello Mascalese - indigenous to the Etna area
Alcohol: 14.5%
Tasting Notes:  The color is pale with a watery rim. Clean, haunting nose with nuances of lava. Very delicate, with a surging finish.