Ballasanti “Etna Rosso DOC” (600m a.s.l. volcanic bush-vine 2Ha vineyards in Piedimonte Etneo, Contrada San Basilio) is a fruity, elegant and juicy red wine made from 100% Nerello Mascalese grapes.
Following manual harvest in the last 10 days of September, vinification process starts with destemming of the grapes. Alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks. Extended skin maceration with pumping over and batonnage. Refinement happens in small ceramic containers, and partly in French oak Tonneaux with biological stabilization over the winter and spontaneous sedimentation. Malolactic fermentation in wood containers.
Racking at the end of winter. Bottling during the second summer following harvest. Aged in bottles for 6 months.
The appearance shows a pale ruby colour. scents of appealing sour red cherries and roses. A little wood influences the nose too, delicately integrated.
The palate is elegant and smooth, with a weightlessness very enchanting despite the 14C. It never feels heavy, thanks to juicy acidity and pure fruit overlaying a darker balsamic background.
There are tannins for the long term, but these are fully integrated and well-harmonized. A tobacco note appears with iron-like minerals on the long and satisfying finish.
It’s delicious now but with future potential for a decade and more. Indeed, Il Sublime, that’s it!
Food-match: A beautiful companion of roasted vegetables, aubergines, lighter meats in sauce and spicy sausages.
Recommended serving-temperature of 16°C.
