Al-Cantàra, 'Lu Veru Piaciri', Nerello Mascalese, Sicily
Al-Cantàra, 'Lu Veru Piaciri', Nerello Mascalese, Sicily
An approachable, fresh and fruity wine with red fruit aromas accompanied by delicate notes of cinnamon and wild herbs
Country - Italy
Region - Etna
Grape Varieties - 100% Nerello Mascalese
Alcohol by volume - 14.5%
Bottle - 75cl
From the slopes of Mount Etna, one of the most distinctive and coveted wine regions in Europe, Al-Cantàra’s wines reflect the soul of the people and the land. Al-Cantàra takes its name from the river which flows through the municipality of Randazzo where the winery and the vineyards are located. The 15 hectare vineyard is located at 620 metres above sea level. All the operations related to the vineyard are carried out with total respect for the environment. Al Cantàra also means ‘bridge’ in Arabic which emphasises the link with the Sicilian terroir and symbolises the union between wine, art and poetry. Owner Pucci Giuffrida is a devotee of fine poetry and for this reason all of the names of the wines are inspired by the poems by Sicilian authors.
The grapes were carefully selected at harvest and only ripe, healthy fruit was vinified. Fermentation took place on the skins lasting for 10 to 12 days at controlled temperatures of 25°C. Post-fermentation maceration lasted for five days extracting colour, flavour and structure, before the wine was pressed off the skins. 50% of the wine was aged in stainless steel for two years; 50% spent one year in barriques and tonneaux, followed by a further year in stainless steel. The wine received a further 12 months bottle ageing prior to release.
It presents a fresh bouquet that opens the door to citrus notes of grapefruit peel and fruity notes of black currants. At the center of its aromatic profile, there is the sweetness of vineyard peach, accompanied by a range of red fruits such as strawberries and raspberries, along with a delicate hint of orange blossom that adds freshness and complexity. On the finish, there are elegant vanilla notes and a slight sweetness that envelops the palate. The wine stands out for its complexity and harmonious combination of rich, bright dark fruit balanced by a touch of acidity and freshness. A fascinating choice for those seeking an intriguing and refined sensory experience.
