2023 Cauru

THE ESTATE

Torre Mora lies on the slopes of Mount Etna, one of the world’s most distinctive volcanic wine regions. The estate has approximately 15 hectares of vineyards, situated around 380 metres above sea level, where altitude, significant day-to-night temperature changes and volcanic soils create ideal conditions for producing elegant, mineral-driven wines.
The vineyards are planted on shallow volcanic soils, only 30–40 cm deep before reaching the underlying basalt layer. Rich in minerals and trace elements deposited through centuries of volcanic activity, these soils give the wines of Torre Mora their characteristic freshness, savoury minerality and spice.

THE STORY OF CAURU

Cauru means “hot” in Sicilian dialect, a reference to the heat and extraordinary energy beneath Mount Etna’s volcanic soils. The wine brings together fruit from two distinct vineyard sites on Etna’s northeastern slopes: Contrada Alboretto Chiuse del Signore near Linguaglossa and Rovittello. The combination of altitude, volcanic terrain and dramatic temperature variations allows the indigenous grapes to ripen slowly while maintaining remarkable freshness and aromatic intensity.

VINEYARD & GRAPES

The 2023 Cauru is composed of 85% Nerello Mascalese and 15% Nerello Cappuccio, two indigenous Sicilian varieties perfectly adapted to Etna’s volcanic environment. The vines are approximately 12–15 years old. Because of the steep terrain, vines are trained using spurred cordon on the limited flatter sections and traditional bush-vine systems on the terraces.

TASTING NOTES

Elegant and distinctly volcanic, opening with ripe cherry, wild strawberry and black raspberry, complemented by violet, citrus and subtle earthy notes. The palate is medium-bodied and beautifully focused, with vibrant red and dark fruit, bright acidity and polished tannins. Notes of blood orange, mineral, spice and subtle cocoa add complexity, while Etna’s characteristic saline and mineral character carries through the long, energetic finish.

FOOD PAIRING

Excellent with roasted or grilled meats, lamb, game, mushroom dishes and aged cheeses. Its bright acidity and fine tannins also make it exceptionally versatile with tomato-based pasta and classic Sicilian cuisine.