Girolamo Russo 'A Rina Etna Rosso 2021

Girolamo Russo is a distinguished winery located on the northern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy. Established in 2005 by Giuseppe Russo, the estate honors his late father, Girolamo, and continues a family tradition of viticulture. The winery encompasses approximately 18 hectares of vineyards, 650 and 780 meters above sea level, surrounded by hazelnut and olive groves. The vineyards are cultivated organically, employing traditional methods such as hand pruning, plowing, and hoeing. The estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties, primarily Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, which thrive in the volcanic soils of Etna. Old bush-trained vines, some over a century old, coexist with newer cordon-trained vines, all tended manually to preserve the authenticity of the terroir.

Girolamo Russo produces a range of wines that express the unique characteristics of their specific vineyards, known as "contrade." Notable wines include 'A Rina Etna Rosso, a blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, and single-vineyard selections like San Lorenzo and Feudo. The winemaking process emphasizes minimal intervention, with fermentation using indigenous yeasts and aging in large oak barrels to enhance complexity while maintaining varietal purity.

The winery offers visits and tastings, allowing guests to explore the vineyards and experience the distinct personalities of each wine. Tasting sessions often include local cold cuts, cheeses, and homemade bread, allowing visitors to appreciate the harmony between the wines and regional cuisine fully. Girolamo Russo's dedication to organic farming, respect for traditional practices, and commitment to showcasing Mount Etna's unique terroir have established it as a prominent producer in the region, garnering acclaim from wine enthusiasts and critics alike.

Italy's largest island and most extensive region, Sicily, is a treasure trove of natural wine wonders. Nestled across the Strait of Messina from the mainland, it boasts Palermo as its capital. This city is a melting pot of cultures, where Arab, Greek, Roman, and Spanish influences merge, not just in its mesmerizing architecture but also in its rich culinary heritage, including its thriving natural wine scene.

The island's history is as complex as it is captivating, mirrored in its diverse cultural tapestry. This complexity extends to its viticulture. Sicily ranked as Italy's third largest wine-producing region after Veneto and Tuscany, has seen a remarkable evolution in wine quality over the last three decades. While international grape varieties like Chardonnay and Syrah are making their mark, the indigenous varietals - Nero d'Avola, Catarratto, Grillo, and Inzolia - truly define Sicilian natural winemaking. These native grapes, thriving in Sicily's unique terroir, give life to natural wines as vibrant and varied as the island.