Vintage Character The 2014 vintage of Calabretta Nerello Mascalese Vigne Vecchie hails from the Etna Rosso DOC on Sicily’s volcanic slopes, where ancient bush vines thrive in mineral-rich soils at high elevation. The cooler, extended growing season of 2014 led to wines with vibrant acidity and refined structure, capturing the expressive character of Nerello Mascalese.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing This wine greets the senses with lively aromas of wild cherry, dried rose petal, and subtle smoky earth, while the palate reveals layers of ripe red currant, pomegranate, and a hint of black tea. Fine, chalky tannins and a persistent, savory finish underscore its elegance, and the distinctive volcanic minerality shines through. Calabretta Nerello Mascalese Vigne Vecchie pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, wild mushroom risotto, classic Sicilian caponata, or aged Pecorino cheese, each dish highlighting the wine’s complexity and freshness.
Winery Background Cantina Calabretta is a family-run estate with a winemaking tradition spanning over a century on the slopes of Mount Etna. The Calabretta family is dedicated to organic viticulture and minimal intervention, cultivating old Nerello Mascalese vines—some over 80 years old—on black volcanic soils. Their approach emphasizes authentic, terroir-driven wines that reflect the unique energy and heritage of Etna. Winemaking relies on spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts and extended aging in large, neutral oak casks, resulting in wines of remarkable purity, depth, and a true expression of Sicily’s volcanic landscape.