Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Chiusa Spagnolo 2018

Frank Cornelissen farms on the northern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, working with minimal intervention in both vineyard and cellar. Chiusa Spagnolo is a single-vineyard red from Nerello Mascalese, the native Etna grape whose pale colour, high acidity and firm tannin often draw comparison with Nebbiolo. The defining factor is the volcano: free-draining black volcanic soils, rich in minerals and old lava, combined with altitude and wide day-to-night temperature swings. That combination holds acidity and pushes the savoury, smoky, mineral character into the fruit. The estate farms organically and by biodynamic methods, and the wine is made naturally, fermented with native yeasts and made without additions, so the site speaks directly. The colour is a translucent ruby. The nose shows red cherry and wild berries over woodsmoke, dried herbs and a saline, volcanic note. The palate is medium bodied, with high acidity, firm but fine tannin and a long, savoury, mineral finish. This is a distinctive wine that rewards a decant. Serve at 15 to 17 degrees with roast game, grilled meat or mushrooms.