▻ Etna with David Gleave MW
In conversation with David Gleave MW
Episode Summary:-
Etna is regarded today as one of Italy’s most exciting regions, attracting dynamic young winemakers and well-known names to its mountainous slopes. In this 10-Minute Masterclass, Italian authority David Gleave MW, takes a deep dive into this relatively new region.
The vineyards are set between 700-1,000 metres on the mountain, which is in the northeast part of Sicily. There are 1,300 hectares and 200 producers.
The main white grape is Carricante, which makes up 60% blend of Etna Bianco and 80% Etna Bianco Superiore. The main red grape is Nerello Mascalese, which David describes as similar in profile to Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, but with a large amount of tannin and high acid. It is late-ripening grape, picked as late as November. The other main red grape is Nerello Cappuccio, which is often blended with Nerello Mascalese.
“Aspect and altitude are at least as important as determining factors in the quality of the wines as the soils,” David advises. The best vineyards for reds are on the north side of Etna, where it is cooler, which leads to a longer growing season. For the whites, it is the east side, around the town of Milo, where there are maritime currents from the sea. He names the late Tuscan aristocrat Andrea Franchetti as the pioneer of the Etna movement and cites the vineyards and producers to look out for.
Both Nerello Mascalese and Carricante age well, and while the tannins need careful treatment, with Nerello Mascalese the aromas of the wine are wonderful. Carricante, he believes, was an underappreciated grape, but is now finding rightful recognition.
““Carricante is an undervalued variety that is now getting its due.” – David Gleave MW”
Join David Gleave MW for a deep dive into the wines of Etna in our latest 10-Minute Masterclass.