2021 Passopisciaro

Pale ruby. Sweet and minerally. Rather distinctive. Real grip on the palate. Interesting wine. Grainy texture on the end. Tastes more alcoholic than it is. (JR)

The 2021 Passorosso is coy in the glass, slowly opening with suggestions of dusty rose and dried strawberries complicated by a hint of sweet Indian curry. It’s silky yet racy with a salty minerality that comes forward quickly, perfectly balanced by a core of juicy red fruit and autumnal spice. The Passorosso leaves the palate stained in youthful concentration as a bump of residual acidity maintains terrific freshness and licorice notes fade. What a beauty. This is first-class Etna Rosso. It's important to note that the Passorosso is not a second wine or a wine made from younger vines but instead a blend of old vines from all of Passopisciaro's crus. If there is one wine from this portfolio that should be considered every year, this is it.

Made with Nerello Mascalese taken from all the vineyards. The aromas show plenty of strawberries and cherries with wrought iron and pumice. Medium-bodied with creamy and polished tannins with hints of cedar and light nutmeg. Savory and lightly tannic giving it tension and beauty. Drink or hold.