Wine Notes
Etna Rossos vary in their capacity to age with some preferring to be approached young. However, the 2012 Aetneus from Il Custodi is just getting into the swing of things: the fresh strawberry notes have mellowed and begun to meld with the mineral and herbal tones so prominent in these wines.
Made from Nerello Mascalese with a small amount of Nerello Cappuccio, the focus here is on old vines that provide a concentration and depth of flavour the younger ones don’t. Surprisingly light in body it has a fresh, soft nose with a strong minerality. Liquorice and marzipan come through fast but the fruit is bright with good acidity. With a few years behind it, it has a wonderful softness that opens up a wealth of flavours.
Producer Notes
I Custodi delle Vigne dell’Etna (the keepers of the vines of Etna) is a small consortium of five growers on the slopes of Mount Etna, gathered together by wine-maker Mario Paoluzzi. The wines are released slightly later than those of many other producers and we are particularly fond of the Aetneus, currently on the 2012 vintage, which is perfect now.
Our rating –