Fragore is Donnafugata's Etna single-vineyard red. The Rallo family winery, born in Marsala, has become one of the best-known names in Sicilian wine. On Etna the estate works at Randazzo, on the northern slope of the volcano, and this red comes from a single contrada: Montelaguardia. The illustrated label, as across the whole range, is by Stefano Vitale.
The vineyard sits at about 730 metres, on sandy volcanic soils formed by 17th-century lava flows. The Nerello Mascalese ferments in stainless steel with skin maceration, then matures for about a year in second- and third-fill barriques, so the oak stays in the background, followed by a long rest in bottle before release.
The 2019 shows Nerello's classic translucency: cherry and small red fruit, herbs, smoky hints and a mineral tension that lengthens the finish. Fine tannins and lovely freshness. Try it with pigeon, lamb, mushrooms or medium-aged cheeses.
At a glance: Nerello Mascalese 100% · 14% ABV · 0.75 l · Donnafugata, Randazzo (Etna)