Contrada R Passopisciaro 2021

Passopisciaro's Contrada R is a wine from Etna, an area that has enjoyed great success in recent years, proving perfect for the production of quality wines. Andrea Franchetti runs his winery in Frazione Passopisciaro and his vineyards are located in different contrada (districts) from which the wines themselves take their name: Contrada 'R' stands for Rampante. The estate is an ancient baglio, surrounded by terraced land that makes viticulture difficult and heroic; all around, nature appears uncontaminated and the rows are in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem and in respect of the natural phases of growth and development of the plants and raw material.

The vineyards of Contrada R di Passopisciaro are located at an altitude of approximately 1000 metres above sea level, close to the slopes of Mount Etna. The climate in this area is often sunny with cool breezes coming from the north, which contributes to consistent temperature fluctuations for optimal ripening of the grapes. The soil is characterised by the consistent presence of minerals derived from lava flows that contribute to making the soil thriving and welcoming to the roots of the plants; the plants are about a century old and some are characterised by not having been affected by phylloxera in the past. The grapes are harvested manually and in the cellar the alcoholic fermentation takes place thanks to the action of indigenous yeasts; it matures 18 months in large oak barrels.

The colour of Contrada R di Passopisciaro is a ruby red with brilliant reflections. On the nose it releases aromas of ripe red fruits, wild flowers such as wild violets, aromatic herbs and on the finish hints of minerals; on the palate it is elegant, enveloping and fresh with well-integrated tannins that are well-integrated into the drink and pleasant with a persistent and inviting finish. In pairing it is recommended with medium-aged cured meats, stewed red meat cuts and game; also interesting with aged cow's and sheep's milk cheeses. Perfect for accompanying the table at celebrations or anniversaries to enjoy an authentic product with rare flavours, ambassador of an often undervalued land.