Etna Bianco 'Nerina' Girolamo Russo 2023

Girolamo Russo's Etna Bianco 'Nerina' is a splendid version of the great white wines of the volcano. Etna's terroir is proving over time to be capable of producing not only elegant and refined reds, but also whites of great finesse and longevity. Grapes from old vineyards and maniacal care in the cellar result in a high-level bottle that highlights the talent of one of the territory's most highly-regarded signatures. The crisp freshness typical of Carricante gives an exciting taste experience, in which the ripeness of the fruit, the savoury and marine sensations and the volcanic terroir blend to perfection.

'Nerina' is the most representative Etna Bianco of Girolamo Russo, a winegrower who has been able to preserve an artisanal profile. His winery is located in Passopisciaro, in the municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia, on the northern slope of the volcano. The estate covers a total of 20 hectares, divided into many parcels. The wine is made from a blend that includes a majority percentage of Carricante, supplemented by a small balance of other native white grapes historically present in Etna's ancient vineyards: Catarratto, Inzolia, Grecanico, Minnella and Coda di Volpe. The vineyards are between 50 and over 100 years old and are located in the San Lorenzo, Feudo and Calderara Sottana districts, at an altitude between 650 and 800 metres above sea level. The soils are of volcanic origin, predominantly composed of sand, and the climate is very cool, sunny and well ventilated, with significant temperature swings between day and night. After soft pressing, the must ferments spontaneously with indigenous yeasts. The wine matures for 70% in stainless steel tanks and 30% in used tonneaux, and then completes the ageing period with 6 months in the bottle.

Girolamo Russo's Etna Bianco 'Nerina' wine is the fruit of the ancient Etna tradition of vinifying together all the white grapes, which are often also present within red grape vineyards, as was the custom in promiscuous viticulture in the past. To the eye, it has a beautiful light yellow colour with light golden reflections. The refined bouquet expresses floral hints of orange blossom, aromas of ripe citrus fruit, white-fleshed fruit, nuances of medicinal herbs and a smoky touch. The entry on the palate is clear and taut, with a flowing, delicate mouthfeel characterised by fruity aromas and saline sensations, which accompany a finish of lively mineral freshness.