Tenuta di Fessina was born in 2007 from a project by Silvia Maestrelli, pioneer and woman producer on the Volcano. The estate is located in the oenological heart of the North East slope of Mt. Etna, in the hamlet of Rovittello, in the municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia. It consists of 17 acres of bush vines vineyards of Nerello Mascalese, almost all ungrafted with an average age of about eighty years. The soil derives from an alluvial pyroclastic residue, which is characterized by finesse and geological complexity. The pumice, powder and volcanic sand sub-soils give the wines intense depth, ethereal and feminine essence. The vineyards, worked manually and organically, express and tell a path of care and respect for a historic terroir. As for the structure, it is protected between two ancient lava flows, which after a renovation offers six rooms for accommodations integrated within the village. The historic lava stone barrel cellar and the Palmento, create a path of simplicity between details of modern design, mazes of ancient majolica tiles and raw lava stone.

“Erse” is an Etna Rosso from Tenuta di Fessina made up of a majority of Nerello Mascalese, the most common native red grape variety on the volcano A small amount of Nerello Cappuccio, a local clone of Carignano is added to the blend along with local white berried grapes, Minnella and Carricante. These are traditionally present in the old plants.

The color is glistening light ruby red. The aromas released are intense with notes of blackberry, clove, currant, a hint of Mediterranean herbs and white pepper. On the palate this medium bodied Etna Rosso has an elegant feel with soft tannins, fresh minerality and a spiciness that is persistent to the finish. Erse Etna Rosso is a capable wine of character that enhances the varietal notes of the grapes of the volcanic terroir. This wine is a tribute to Silvia Maestrelli and the winemaking team at Tenuta di Fessina. Bravissimo!


By Perry Miroballi