Vintage Character The 2019 vintage of Alta Mora Etna Rosso Guardiola hails from the renowned volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, where the single-vineyard Guardiola cru is celebrated for its high-altitude terroir and mineral-rich soils. Benefiting from a cool spring followed by a warm, dry summer, the 2019 growing season produced wines with notable freshness, vibrant acidity, and refined tannic structure.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing Awarded 94 points by Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, this Etna Rosso opens with alluring aromas of wild cherry, pomegranate, dried rose petals, and subtle hints of volcanic ash. On the palate, it showcases a harmonious interplay of ripe red fruits, savory herbal nuances, and a distinct mineral backbone, all carried by silky yet energetic tannins to a lingering, saline finish that speaks to its volcanic origins. Exceptionally food-friendly, it pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roasted duck breast, or crispy pork belly with five-spice for an Asian accent, while aged cheeses like Pecorino highlight its earthy complexity and depth.
Winery Background Alta Mora is the visionary Etna project of the Cusumano family, established in 2013 to honor the ancient viticultural heritage and unique soils of Sicily’s iconic volcano. The estate’s vineyards are situated between approximately 600 and 800 meters above sea level, where old bush-trained Nerello Mascalese vines thrive on black lava soils, contributing distinctive character and energy to the wines. Alta Mora is recognized for its meticulous vineyard management and a philosophy of minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the purity and authenticity of Etna’s terroir to shine through each bottling. The Cusumano family’s dedication to sustainable practices and respect for nature underpins their approach, positioning Alta Mora as a benchmark for modern Sicilian winemaking and a source of wines that capture the essence of Mount Etna.