Tornatore - Etna Rosato, Sicily, Italy (2024)

TASTING NOTES

Juicy wild raspberry, red berries, wild orange, lemon peel livens the medium-bodied, saline palate. Ample Etna minerality and freshness give a vibrancy to the palate, finishing long and salty.

Out of a Sicilian family heritage that traces back to the 17th century, the Tornatore’s Mount Etna wine ventures began in 1865. Today the family’s operations are headed by Giuseppe Tornatore, a businessman whose expertise led to the acquisition of some of the region’s finest north-facing vineyards in the early 2000’s. That heritage and the Tornatore’s profound respect and understanding of the land is showcased in wines that capture the essence of Etna, deftly balancing concentrated flavors, complexity, freshness and refinement.

The company lies in the northern side of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. The soils have volcanic origin and were created through the disintegration of lava, ash and stones from previous volcanic eruptions. The climate on the northern side of the Etna is characterized by mild temperatures, and more rain fall reflecting the influence of the Volcano. The combination of soil, climate and the skill of the winemakers, have made the northern slope of Etna an ideal area for the production of high-quality wines. 

Tornatore is becoming one of the region's biggest and most respected wineries. Their vineyards are located at an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level on the north side of this active volcano.

This is a shining, deeper-hued rose of nerello mascalese, from Castiglione di Sicilia, on Etna's northern slopes. With just a few hours of skin time giving a glowing crimson, this was fermented and aged for a short stint in stainless to preserve the fresh fruit.