Winery: Named after his daughter Elena, Italian wine importer Marc de Grazia founded Le Vigne di Eli in 2006 when he purchased 5 hectares of vines on the northern slope of Mount Etna. The 2 tiny vineyard plots are in the renowned contrada [cru] of Feudo di Mezzo and Moganazzi-Voltasciara. The labels are Elena’s [Eli’s] drawings, “a substantial part of the small proceeds go to a childrens’ hospital, the Ospedale Pediatrico Meyer in Florence”.
Winemaking: Organic and sustainable methods are used in both the vineyard and cellar. Vines were planted in 1957 and 1967, are at 650-700 meters in elevation and in “volcanic ash with black pumice and volcanic rock, extremely rocky” soil. 650 cases made.
Tasting Notes: Garnet in colour with aromas of cherry, tarry earth, wildflowers and roasted chipotle pepper. Cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black pepper, earth, roasted herbs trace and ashy/chalky minerality are framed by sturdy tannins and fresh acidity. Red fruit and peppery spice linger between each sip. Well structured, straightforward, with a rustic edge.
98% Nerello Mascalese, 2% Nerello Cappuccio
Etna Rosso DOC
Sicily
Italy
Estate Bottled by Le Vigne di Eli
14.5% Alcohol
$25 [average price]
cara rutherford 
0 comments on “Le Vigne di Eli Etna Rosso DOC 2017”