2020 Scalunera

The Story

The Etna DOC production area is an exceptional place for viticulture. This area is distinguished by some unique features which, when combined, generate a complex microclimate: a loose and fertile volcanic soil, at high altitude characterized by an important daily thermal excursion. A unique place that stands out for its special bond with the typical vines of the area: Nerello Mascalese, the main vine of the slopes of the volcano for the reds, and the Carricante for the whites.

Torre Mora has 15 hectares of vineyards located 380 meters above sea level, which enjoy a favorable exposure that, combined with the lava nature of the land, give extremely distinctive, mineral and spicy characteristics to the wines.

The term Scalunera, Sicilian for black stairs, refers to the terraced vineyards found on the steep slopes of the Etna volcano.

Winemaking

The age of the vines varies between 12 and 15 years. Due to the steep land on which the vineyards are located, the training systems are spurred cordon in the small flat areas and the sapling on the terraces. The soil, purely volcanic, characterized by an acidic pH, is very fertile. Despite the shallow depth (30-40 cm deep before reaching the basalt layer), the soil is extraordinarily mineral and rich in traces and microelements brought by volcanic eruptions.

Bush trained vines, also known as albarello are grown on black loose volcanic soil. Scalunera Etna is a selection of 97% Nerello Mascalese and 3% Nerello Cappuccio from a low yielding organic terraced vineyard in Rovittello. Harvest is done exclusively by hand and takes place in mid-October. They opt for short macerations on the skins, about 14 days. Once spontaneous malolactic fermentation is finished, Scalunera is racked to oak barrels and barriques for 18 months.

Tasting Notes

Fragrant red berries on the nose with yellow fruit and citrus scents. Scalunera displays a rare aromatic profile, a mix of ripe, dry and pleasantly bitter sensations, with medium body and fine grip.