Tenuta di Fessina - il Musmeci Etna Rosso Riserva, 2011
Il Musmeci Rosso is made entirely from the Nerello Mascalese grapes grown in the estate Cru in Rovittello, located on Etna’s northern slope. After fermentation, the wine is matured for 10-12 months in French oak barrels, followed by 6-8 months in bigger oak vessels and then an additional 4 years (minimum) in bottle before release.
In the glass, the wine has a ruby hue verging into garnet – medium intensity of colour. On the nose, il Musmeci Rosso has a pronounced intensity of flavours. It’s deep, fresh and concentrated. Lively red fruit notes (red cherry, redcurrant, raspberry) alternate with perfumed violet and earthy undertones. Whiffs of juniper, liquorice and white pepper add further complexity. An early stage of evolution is shown by the notes of tobacco, game and dried rose.
On the palate, all the pleasant sensations savoured in the nose are corroborated. This red features a seamless integration of flavours. Classy and perfectly balanced, it’s crisp, perfectly harmonising ripeness and tautness. Red fruit notes intermingle with toasty, earthy and herbal nuances. Medium+ in tannins with crystalline high acidity and medium to full in body. The wine’s mouthfeel is velvety yet alive, progressing dynamically towards a harmonious long finish. A touch of iron minerality and flowery hints linger in the aftertaste.