Description
Viticulture
Tornatores’ vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna are among Europe’s most dramatic, planted on steep, terraced volcanic soils at altitudes between 600 and 850 metres.. Old vines of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Capuccio thrive in lava-rich soils, shaped by strong winds and wide diurnal shifts. Tornatore employ counter espalier (controspalliera) training, allowing better canopy control, improved airflow and more precise ripening while adapting to Etna’s challenging terrain and modern viticultural needs.
Winemaking
After being harvested by hand into small crates, the grapes are swiftly transported to the winery, where they are manually sorted on a conveyor belt. They are then destemmed and only partially crushed before being transferred to concrete tanks, where maceration takes place for around 10–12 days at temperatures of 22–25 °C. Following fermentation, the wine remains in contact with the skins for a few additional days before being drawn off. The remaining skins are then pressed using a traditional vertical press.
Food matching
This will shine with dishes that are savoury, herbal, and not too rich. Treat it like a refined red — it rewards restraint and balance rather than heavy sauces or bold spice.
