Cork

Italy

The Montelaguardia contrada (4ha at 730m altitude) is protected by forests from climatic extremes and is milder than the Marchesa contrada (Donnafugata's other Etna cru wine). Production is tiny: just over 3,000 bottles and 51 magnums. The wine, 100% Nerello Mascalese, is aged in second- and third-use French oak for 14 months, before a further 18 months bottle ageing. 2018 was a cooler, rainier than average vintage on Etna, and the wine has great freshness and energy, with dark fruit character (blackberries and forest fruits) and a sous bois dimension. A twist of black pepper too. It's mineral, structured and has tannic grip, complementing the perfumed finesse. Would be a great match for pheasant and other game, or Peking duck.

Nerello Mascalese

Donnafugata, Fragore, Contrada Montelaguardia, Etna Rosso, Sicily, Italy, 2018

Fragore-Donnafugata.gif

The Montelaguardia contrada (4ha at 730m altitude) is protected by forests from climatic extremes and is milder than the Marches

Donnafugata, Fragore, Contrada Montelaguardia, Etna Rosso, Sicily, Italy, 2018

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