{"title":"Frank Cornelissen","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen makes some of the most talked-about wines on Mount Etna: Nerello Mascalese and Carricante from high, volcanic vineyards on the north side of the mountain, made with as little intervention as he can manage. Here you'll find his MunJebel contrada reds and whites, the flagship Magma and the easygoing Susucaru.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrank Cornelissen: a Belgian who bet on Etna's north slope\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCornelissen was born in Belgium and worked in the wine trade before moving to Sicily, and his first vintage on Etna was 2001. He settled in Solicchiata, in the comune of Castiglione di Sicilia, when the north slope was still largely overlooked. The estate now works around 24 hectares, olive groves and fruit trees included, in small parcels between roughly 600 and 1,000 metres, many of them old bush-trained alberello vines in black volcanic sand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis idea from the start was that the mountain should speak louder than the cellar. There's no wood at all: the wines ferment and age in neutral tubs, epoxy-lined tanks and terracotta vessels buried in the ground. In the early years that meant no added sulphur. He now uses small doses where he judges a wine needs it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMunJebel: single contrada Nerello Mascalese from Etna\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMunJebel is the heart of the range. The name echoes Mongibello, the old local name for Etna, which joins the Latin and Arabic words for mountain. The reds are pure Nerello Mascalese, bottled by contrada, the historic vineyard districts of Etna, so you can taste one site against another.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe letters on the label tell you where the grapes grew. CR is Contrada Campo Re, MC is Monte Colla and FM is Feudo di Mezzo, while CS and PA are further single sites. VA, for Vigne Alte, brings together the highest vineyards. All share pale ruby colour, red cherry and wild strawberry, a smoky, ashy edge and fine but firm tannins. Some sites give more perfume and lift, others more depth and grip, which makes a side-by-side tasting a pleasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMunJebel Bianco is the white counterpart, built mainly on Carricante with Grecanico Dorato and, in the Vigne Alte version, a little Catarratto. Expect citrus, salty minerality and tense acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMagma and Susucaru: the top and the start of the Cornelissen range\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMagma is the flagship and one of the rarest bottles from Etna. It comes from a single plot of very old Nerello Mascalese vines in Contrada Barbabecchi, and only a tiny quantity is made each year. It's denser and more layered than MunJebel, with dark cherry, iron, herbs and a long mineral finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSusucaru sits at the other end: a field blend led by Nerello Mascalese with other local red and white grapes, picked and fermented together. The result is a light, juicy red you can serve slightly cool, and the easiest way into the Cornelissen style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to serve and store Frank Cornelissen wines\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe the reds at 14 to 16°C and give MunJebel and Magma some air, ideally an hour in a decanter. With little or no added sulphur, the bottles want a cool, dark place at a steady temperature. They suit mushrooms, lamb, tuna and aged cheese. Explore more on our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/sicily\"\u003eSicilian wine\u003c\/a\u003e page, try the island's other great red grape in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/nero-davola\"\u003eNero d'Avola\u003c\/a\u003e collection, or browse \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/italy\"\u003eItalian wine\u003c\/a\u003e and our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/red-wine\"\u003ered wine\u003c\/a\u003e range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFAQ about Frank Cornelissen\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Frank Cornelissen a natural wine producer?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, he's one of the best-known names in natural wine. He uses no wood in the cellar and keeps additions to a minimum, with only small doses of sulphur where a wine needs it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat grape is used in MunJebel Rosso and Magma?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth are 100% Nerello Mascalese, Etna's signature red grape. Susucaru is a blend, and MunJebel Bianco is based on Carricante.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhere on Etna are the vineyards?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the north slope around Solicchiata, between roughly 600 and 1,000 metres, in contrade such as Barbabecchi, Campo Re, Monte Colla and Feudo di Mezzo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow long can Frank Cornelissen wines age?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSusucaru is made for drinking young. MunJebel reds develop nicely over five to ten years and Magma can go longer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","products":[{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-bianco-va-vigne-alte-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Bianco VA Vigne Alte 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen’s Munjebel Bianco VA Vigne Alte 2021 is a distinctive white wine from some of the highest vineyards on Etna, grown at 900–1,000 meters above sea level from ungrafted vines. It stands out for combining remarkable depth and volume with piercing acidity, mineral drive, and a finely textured, serious style that reflects the edge of viticulture on the volcano.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this white wine shows a clear, luminous profile with energy and precision. The nose is typically lifted and layered, suggesting citrus, white stone fruit, wild herbs, and a strong volcanic mineral note, with subtle savory complexity emerging as it opens.\n\nOn the palate, it is deep and full without losing freshness, balancing ripe fruit with high acidity, firm structure, and a chalky, almost saline texture. The finish is long and mineral, and the wine has the concentration and balance to develop well with time in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMunjebel Bianco VA Vigne Alte comes from Cornelissen’s highest vineyard sites on Mount Etna, planted between 900 and 1,000 meters above sea level in volcanic soils. The old, ungrafted vines benefit from cool temperatures, strong diurnal shifts, and a demanding mountain terroir that naturally limits yields and intensifies flavor. Vinification follows a minimal-intervention approach that aims to preserve purity, texture, and the character of the site.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine pairs beautifully with oysters, shellfish, grilled white fish, sashimi, lemon-roasted chicken, and Mediterranean vegetable dishes. Serve it lightly chilled, around 10–12°C, and consider brief decanting if you want to give its aromatic layers more room to unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of the most respected natural-leaning producers on Etna, known for making wines that express the volcano’s raw energy and individuality. His work has helped put Etna at the center of modern fine-wine conversations, and he is widely recognized for meticulous vineyard work, low-intervention winemaking, and distinctive bottlings that highlight site over technique.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255185559889,"sku":"XW-53929","price":133.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-bianco-va-vigne-alte-2021_53929_1_d4705597-b7f9-40f5-92ad-d56aba49b7e2.webp?v=1783457047"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-cs-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso CS 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso CS 2021 is a pure Nerello Mascalese from one of Etna’s most singular sites: the ungrafted Chiusa Spagnolo parcel in contrada Zottorinoto. Nestled like a natural amphitheatre surrounded by ancient lava flows, this lower-lying vineyard (around 620 meters above sea level) yields a deeper, more structured expression of Etna than many of Cornelissen’s other contrada wines. Often compared stylistically to Nebbiolo, it offers a more reserved, ageworthy profile that rewards patience and attentive drinking.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Munjebel Rosso CS 2021 typically shows a luminous, medium garnet to ruby hue with a slight transparency at the rim—classic for Nerello Mascalese—yet with an intensity that hints at its concentration. The nose is finely etched and somewhat introverted at first, opening gradually with air to reveal red cherry, wild strawberry, dried rose petals and blood orange zest, layered with savory notes of crushed rock, iron, tobacco leaf, tea, and gentle spice. There is a distinct volcanic minerality—almost smoky, but more ash and warm stone than overt oak or toast.\n\nOn the palate the wine is taut, vertical, and firmly structured, with Nebbiolo-like tannins that are fine-grained yet assertive, wrapped around a core of precise red fruit. Sour cherry, cranberry and pomegranate are joined by hints of licorice, dried herbs and a saline, mouthwatering edge that speaks clearly of Etna’s lava soils. The acidity is vibrant and linear, giving the wine a long, resonant finish that feels both savory and mineral. Munjebel Rosso CS 2021 is built to age: while approachable with proper aeration, it should gain complexity and harmonize its tannins beautifully over 8–15 years from vintage, and potentially longer in ideal cellaring conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChiusa Spagnolo is a historic, ungrafted Nerello Mascalese vineyard planted around 1925 in contrada Zottorinoto, a lower-altitude site (approx. 620 m) cradled in a lava amphitheatre on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. The vines grow on decomposed volcanic ash and lava, with excellent drainage and poor, mineral-rich soils that naturally limit yields and concentrate flavor. Frank Cornelissen farms these old vines with a strongly minimalist, low-intervention philosophy—favoring organic\/biodynamic principles, meticulous hand work, and low yields harvested by hand at optimal physiological ripeness. In the cellar, fermentation is typically spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, often in neutral vessels (such as epoxy-lined tanks or large neutral casks), with extended maceration to draw out the site’s characteristic tannic backbone. The wine is aged on its lees in inert or large-format containers to preserve purity of fruit and terroir expression, with little or no new oak influence and only minimal sulfur added, if at all, prior to bottling without fining or filtration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis structured, Nebbiolo-like Etna Rosso is ideal alongside dishes that can match its tannin and acidity. Think classic Sicilian and Italian fare such as grilled lamb chops with rosemary, slow-braised beef or veal, rabbit stew, sausage and fennel ragù, or roasted pork with herbs. It also sings with earthy elements—porcini risotto, wild mushroom dishes, truffle pasta, or aged semi-hard cheeses like Pecorino, Ragusano or mature Parmigiano-Reggiano. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight its aromatic complexity and freshness. Given its reserved nature, decanting is recommended: 1–2 hours for younger bottles like the 2021 to allow the bouquet and texture to fully unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of Mount Etna’s most influential and recognizable producers, known for pushing the boundaries of minimal-intervention winemaking on the volcano’s dramatic northern slopes. A Belgian by birth, Cornelissen settled on Etna in the early 2000s, drawn by the region’s ancient bush-trained vines, ungrafted rootstocks and unique volcanic terroir. From the outset he focused on expressing each contrada—the local term for individual lava flows and crus—through bottlings that emphasize purity, minerality, and place over winemaker signature. His Munjebel range has become a modern benchmark for natural-leaning Etna Rosso, and his meticulous work in the vineyards, combined with a philosophy of minimal manipulation in the cellar, has helped cement Etna’s status as one of Italy’s most exciting and distinctive wine regions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255185658193,"sku":"XW-54494","price":136.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-cs-2021_54494_1_5885681a-2485-4f0f-8871-befb482bd415.webp?v=1783457048"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-cr-contrada-campo-re-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso CR Contrada Campo Re 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen’s Munjebel Rosso CR Contrada Campo Re 2021 is a pure Nerello Mascalese that captures the most contemplative, structured side of Etna’s north slope. Sourced from the high-altitude Campo Re vineyard at the entrance to Randazzo, this single-contrada bottling is known for its depth, grip, and almost Barolo-like poise. In Cornelissen’s lineup, Campo Re is the cru that speaks with the quietest voice at first, but with the greatest seriousness and aging promise.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Munjebel Rosso CR 2021 shows a luminous, transparent ruby garnet with a slight brick-tinged rim, typical of Nerello Mascalese grown at altitude. The nose opens slowly, revealing wild red berries, sour cherry, rose petals, dried herbs, and blood orange, layered with ferrous minerality, balsamic notes, and hints of sweet tobacco and spice as it gets air.\n\nOn the palate, this is firm, vertical, and tightly woven, more reminiscent of Nebbiolo from great Piedmont sites than of a typical sun-drenched southern Italian red. The fruit is red-toned and restrained rather than lush—think red currant, pomegranate, and cranberry—wrapped in fine but assertive tannins and a savory, stony backbone. High, saline acidity gives it energy and precision, while subtle smoke and volcanic earth linger on a long, tactile finish. Still youthful and somewhat introverted in 2021, this wine has excellent aging potential; it should develop beautifully over 10–15 years, gaining complexity, texture, and tertiary nuances of truffle, leather, and dried flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eContrada Campo Re lies at around 735 meters above sea level on Etna’s north side, at the valley floor near the entrance to Randazzo. Here, deep, fertile volcanic soils and the cooler, high-altitude climate create a late-ripening site where achieving full phenolic maturity can be challenging in wetter years—but when it happens, the results are profound. The vineyard is partially ungrafted, a rarity that allows Nerello Mascalese to express a particularly pure connection to its volcanic terroir. Frank Cornelissen farms organically with a strong minimalist and nature-focused philosophy, often described as more than just “natural” wine: meticulous vineyard work, low yields, and manual harvesting at optimal ripeness. In the cellar, fermentation is spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, typically in neutral vessels, and the wine macerates on the skins to build structure and extract fine tannins. Aging is carried out in inert containers (such as epoxy-lined tanks or neutral vessels) to avoid oak flavoring, with minimal interventions and a restrained use of sulfur, allowing the contrada character to shine through.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis structured, deeply mineral Etna Rosso calls for equally thoughtful food. It is superb with game birds, lamb, veal, and slow-braised dishes such as ossobuco or beef cheeks, as well as with mushroom-based plates, truffle pasta, and aged, hard cheeses. Its Nebbiolo-like tannins and high acidity also make it a great match for rich ragù, grilled meats, and earthy vegetable dishes like roasted root vegetables or lentil stews. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to keep the aromatics lifted and the structure in balance. Decanting is strongly recommended—at least 1–2 hours for a young bottle—to help the wine unfurl its layered aromatics and soften the formidable tannic frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of Mount Etna’s most influential and pioneering producers, renowned for pushing the boundaries of what volcanic Sicilian terroir can express. A former wine merchant from Belgium, Cornelissen settled on Etna in the early 2000s, captivated by the mountain’s ancient vineyards, ungrafted vines, and extreme landscapes. From the outset, he embraced a rigorously low-intervention approach: meticulous, often manual vineyard work, organic farming, and a philosophy of doing as little as possible in the cellar while maintaining very high standards of cleanliness and precision. His Munjebel and Magma bottlings have become benchmarks for Etna and for natural-leaning fine wine globally, helping to elevate the region from relative obscurity to one of Italy’s most exciting and sought-after wine areas. Contrada-specific wines like Campo Re underscore his belief that Etna’s volcanic slopes deserve to be read with the same granularity and respect given to the great crus of Burgundy or Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255185756497,"sku":"XW-53932","price":96.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-cr-contrada-campo-re-2021_53932_1_c085139e-323e-4d92-a2f3-16c412103c14.webp?v=1783457048"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-fm-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso FM 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso FM 2021 is a single-contrada Nerello Mascalese from the lower part of Feudo di Mezzo on the northern slopes of Etna. Drawn from a site known for its unusual finesse, it offers a distinctly Burgundian sense of elegance and roundness, even in warmer vintages. This cuvée captures the tension between depth and delicacy that has made Etna one of Italy’s most compelling fine-wine regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Munjebel Rosso FM 2021 shows a luminous, semi-transparent ruby with garnet highlights, echoing the look of fine Pinot Noir rather than a more muscular southern Italian red. The nose is refined and mineral-driven, with notes of red cherry, wild strawberry, pomegranate and blood orange layered over dried rose petals, sweet spices, crushed volcanic rock and a subtle earthy, smoky edge.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, silky and finely etched, with juicy red fruit, delicate herbal tones and a pronounced saline-mineral backbone. Tannins are ultra-fine and chalky, giving structure without hardness, while bright, linear acidity keeps the wine vibrant and precise from start to finish. The finish is long, savoury and nuanced, showing hints of tea leaf, citrus peel and iron-tinged stone. Enjoyable now with a short decant, it has the balance and structure to evolve beautifully over the next 8–10 years, gaining in complexity and tertiary nuances.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFeudo di Mezzo is a broad contrada situated in a valley floor on Etna’s cooler northern side, with relatively deep, well-drained volcanic soils that can pose challenges in wetter vintages but reward with depth and refinement in balanced years. The lower portion of the cru (sottana) is carefully separated from the upper part to preserve its distinct character of elegance over sheer power. Old-vine Nerello Mascalese is hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, with strict selection both in the vineyard and at the cellar. Fermentation typically occurs with indigenous yeasts, often with a significant proportion of whole clusters, in neutral vessels to avoid masking the terroir, followed by aging in inert containers (such as large neutral barrels or epoxy-lined tanks) to maintain purity, texture and the wine’s signature Burgundian finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMunjebel Rosso FM 2021 is a versatile, gastronomic red that shines with refined dishes rather than heavy sauces. Try it with grilled or roast lamb, herb-crusted pork, duck breast, game birds, mushroom risotto, truffled dishes or simply prepared veal and rabbit. It also works beautifully with mature, semi-hard cheeses and charcuterie where its acidity and minerality can cut through fat. Serve at 14–16°C, slightly cooler than a typical full-bodied red, to highlight its freshness and aromatic nuance. A 30–60 minute decant is recommended in its youth to open the bouquet and soften the tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of the most influential and widely discussed producers on Mount Etna, known for his uncompromising, terroir-driven approach and a strong commitment to minimal intervention. A Belgian by birth, Cornelissen settled on Etna in the early 2000s, long before the region’s current fame, drawn by its ancient bush-vine vineyards and stark volcanic landscapes. Working at high elevations on the volcano’s northern slopes, he focuses on Nerello Mascalese and other local varieties, bottling them by contrada to express the individuality of each site. Over the years, his wines have helped define modern Etna as a world-class fine-wine region, earning a dedicated following among sommeliers and collectors for their purity, energy and unmistakable sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255185854801,"sku":"XW-54495","price":103.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-fm-2021_54495_1_dca6e0fa-daf4-4264-afb0-161036a840d3.webp?v=1783457050"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-mc-monte-colla-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso MC Monte Colla 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso MC Monte Colla 2021 is a pure Nerello Mascalese that captures the raw drama of Mount Etna in a single cru expression. Sourced exclusively from the steep, terraced slopes of contrada Monte Colla, it delivers a powerful yet hauntingly elegant red that Cornelissen calls his “Hermitage on Etna.” This bottling stands out for its old-vine concentration, mountain freshness and a sense of place that is unmistakably volcanic and Sicilian.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Munjebel Rosso MC Monte Colla 2021 shows a luminous, transparent ruby to garnet hue, typical of Nerello Mascalese but with extra depth from the old vines. The nose is intense and refined, opening with wild red berries, sour cherry and pomegranate, then unfolding into dried rose petals, blood orange, volcanic ash, warm spices and subtle herbal tones.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is both structured and graceful: a core of ripe red fruit is wrapped in fine, chalky tannins and vibrant, mouth-watering acidity. Flavors of red currant, cherry, licorice, crushed stone and a faint smokiness echo the vineyard’s proximity to Etna. The finish is long, savory and mineral-driven, with a lingering impression of spice and saline freshness. While already compelling in its youth, this 2021 has the structure and energy to evolve beautifully over 8–12 years, gaining additional complexity and tertiary notes with time in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Monte Colla cru is an extraordinarily steep, terraced vineyard facing Mount Etna, exposed to abundant sun and cooling mountain winds. Here, old Nerello Mascalese vines planted in 1946 dig deep into sand-and-clay-based volcanic soils, giving naturally low yields and exceptional concentration. Fruit is typically harvested by hand to preserve berry integrity and to allow a strict selection in the vineyard. In the cellar, Frank Cornelissen is known for his minimal-intervention philosophy: fermentations are spontaneous with native yeasts, extraction is carefully managed to emphasize finesse over power, and the wine is aged in neutral vessels to preserve purity of fruit and terroir expression, with minimal added sulfur at bottling.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMunjebel Rosso MC Monte Colla 2021 is a brilliant match for refined yet flavorful dishes such as grilled lamb chops, roast pork with herbs, duck breast, mushroom risotto, or Sicilian classics like caponata and grilled swordfish with tomato and olives. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses and dishes featuring Mediterranean herbs and earthy components. Serve at 16–18°C (about 60–64°F) to highlight its aromatic complexity and fine tannins. Decant for 45–60 minutes in its youth to let the wine open up fully and reveal its layered, volcanic character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of the most influential and distinctive producers on Mount Etna, renowned for his uncompromising, terroir-driven approach and commitment to expressing the volcano’s unique personality. Based on Etna’s northern slopes, he works predominantly with old-vine Nerello Mascalese, cultivating high-altitude vineyards often on dramatic, terraced sites. Cornelissen was an early pioneer of low-intervention, site-specific bottlings on Etna, helping to redefine the region’s reputation on the world stage. His Munjebel series, and particularly the single-contrada wines like Monte Colla, are highly sought after for their purity, energy and transparent expression of place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255185887569,"sku":"XW-54496","price":103.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-mc-monte-colla-2021_54496_1_3b490e29-e037-4433-97d4-e5eba12efee9.webp?v=1783457050"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-pa-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso PA 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso PA 2021 is a pure Nerello Mascalese from one of Etna’s most revered crus, delivering a captivating mix of volcanic power and refined elegance. Sourced exclusively from the Porcaria vineyard, this is one of Cornelissen’s most complete and characterful expressions of Mount Etna. The high-altitude site and traditional alberello training produce a wine that is both intense and finely etched, reflecting the unique energy of Sicily’s active volcano.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Munjebel Rosso PA 2021 typically shows a luminous, transparent ruby to garnet hue with a slightly wild, volcanic edge to its appearance. The nose is vivid and complex, offering layers of wild red berries, sour cherries and pomegranate, intertwined with notes of blood orange, dried herbs, rose petals, iron, and smoky, ashy mineral tones that are classic for Etna.\n\nOn the palate, this wine is simultaneously taut and generous: fine, chalky tannins frame flavors of red cherry, cranberry, and raspberry, supported by a vibrant, mouthwatering acidity. Subtle undertones of dried flowers, citrus peel, spice and crushed rock add depth and length, leading to a long, savory, mineral-driven finish. While beautifully drinkable in its youth after some air, the structure and acidity suggest strong aging potential; under good cellaring conditions, it should evolve gracefully for 10–15 years, gaining more tertiary notes of tobacco, dried herbs, truffle and forest floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Munjebel Rosso PA 2021 come from the historic Porcaria vineyard, an old alberello-trained Nerello Mascalese site situated around 640 meters above sea level in contrada Feudo di Mezzo on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. Here, vines dig deep into decomposed lava and ash-rich volcanic soils, which naturally limit yields and give the wine its distinctive mineral backbone and tension. The altitude brings cool nights that help preserve acidity and aromatic precision, making full, even ripening a demanding but rewarding challenge. Frank Cornelissen works with a low-intervention philosophy, typically harvesting by hand at optimal physiological ripeness and sorting rigorously in the vineyard and cellar. Fermentation is usually spontaneous with native yeasts, often in neutral vessels, allowing the pure character of Nerello Mascalese and the Porcaria terroir to shine without heavy oak influence, and the wine is bottled with minimal handling to preserve its natural energy and nuance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMunjebel Rosso PA 2021 is a highly versatile gastronomic wine that pairs beautifully with refined yet flavorful dishes. Think grilled or roasted lamb, herb-crusted pork, game birds, and charcoal-grilled tuna or swordfish, as well as tomato-based Sicilian pasta, rich mushroom risottos, and aged, hard cheeses such as pecorino or ragusano. Its bright acidity and fine tannins also work well with dishes featuring Mediterranean herbs, olives, and roasted vegetables. Serve at around 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight its aromatic complexity and balance. Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended in its youth to open up the layered aromatics and soften the structure; older bottles can be decanted more gently to avoid disturbing sediment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of the most influential and distinctive producers on Mount Etna, known for his uncompromising pursuit of terroir expression and minimal intervention in the cellar. A Belgian-born wine merchant turned vigneron, Cornelissen settled on Etna in the early 2000s, captivated by the volcano’s ancient vineyards, ungrafted old vines, and dramatic volcanic soils. Working primarily on the cooler northern slopes, he has helped redefine Etna’s global reputation, showing that Nerello Mascalese can rival great Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir in finesse and complexity. His Munjebel range, and particularly single-vineyard bottlings like PA (Porcaria), are now benchmarks for volcanic wines worldwide, highly sought after by collectors and sommeliers for their purity, energy, and unmistakable sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255186084177,"sku":"XW-54497","price":103.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-pa-2021_54497_1_34ae2f22-6d92-4667-98e9-7c15a8469a66.webp?v=1783457051"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-magma-rosso-contrada-barbabecchi-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Magma Rosso Contrada Barbabecchi 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Magma Rosso Contrada Barbabecchi 2021 is the estate’s flagship wine, sourced from the historic Barbabecchi vineyard on Etna at 910 meters above sea level. Made from pure Nerello Mascalese on ungrafted old vines planted around 1910, it captures the volcanic energy, finesse, and precision that have made this wine one of Sicily’s most sought-after expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExpect a deeply colored red with remarkable intensity and clarity. The nose is layered and expressive, often showing dark cherry, wild berry, dried herbs, spice, smoke, and a distinctive mineral edge that reflects Etna’s volcanic soils.\n\nOn the palate, it is both powerful and elegant, with depth of fruit, fine structure, and a long, nuanced finish. The balance of concentration and freshness gives it impressive aging potential, and in strong vintages it can develop beautifully over many years, gaining complexity and refinement.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Barbabecchi vineyard sits at high elevation on Etna’s northern\/northeastern slopes, where cool morning sun and volcanic terroir help preserve freshness while encouraging slow, even ripening. The vines are old, ungrafted, and planted around 1910, producing naturally low yields and exceptional concentration. This wine is only made in outstanding vintages, when full phenolic ripeness is achieved, allowing for a pure and precise expression of Nerello Mascalese.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe at around 16–18°C. This wine pairs beautifully with roast lamb, venison, grilled beef, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses, as well as Sicilian-inspired cuisine with earthy herbs and tomato-based sauces. Decanting is recommended, especially in its youth, to allow the aromas and structure to खुल unfold fully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of Etna’s most respected natural-minded producers, known for his uncompromising approach and his ability to express volcanic terroir with striking purity. Based in Sicily, he has built an international reputation for wines that combine authenticity, structure, and a strong sense of place. Magma is among his most celebrated cuvées and has become a reference point for serious Etna red wine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255507734865,"sku":"XW-53928","price":523.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-magma-rosso-contrada-barbabecchi-2021_53928_1_31d80b81-d05e-4492-a2f8-7f1bb6380272.webp?v=1783459131"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-va-vigne-alte-2021","title":"Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso VA Vigne Alte 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso VA Vigne Alte 2021 is a pure Nerello Mascalese sourced exclusively from Cornelissen’s three highest-altitude vineyards on the northern slopes of Mount Etna: Tartaraci, Rampante Soprana and Barbabecchi. Crafted from old, ungrafted vines rooted deep in volcanic terraces, it captures a remarkably precise, lifted and finely etched expression of Etna Rosso. Often described as the most Burgundian of Cornelissen’s crus, Vigne Alte marries volcanic intensity with a haunting, almost weightless elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Munjebel Rosso VA Vigne Alte 2021 typically shows a translucent, luminous ruby to garnet hue, reflecting its high-altitude origins and Nerello Mascalese’s naturally pale color. The nose is beautifully perfumed and complex, with red cherry, wild strawberry and pomegranate layered over notes of blood orange, rose petals, dried herbs, sweet spices and a subtle, smoky volcanic minerality.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is taut yet silken, with a fine-boned structure that calls to mind top-tier Burgundy. Crisp red fruits, sour cherry and cranberry interplay with hints of balsamic, orange zest, licorice and crushed rock. The tannins are ultra-fine and chalky, framing the wine without ever weighing it down, while the acidity is vibrant and mouthwatering, stretching the palate into a long, mineral-driven finish. This cuvée has excellent aging potential; while already highly expressive in its youth, it should develop further complexity and tertiary nuances over 8–12 years or more in a good cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Vigne Alte bottling is drawn from Cornelissen’s three highest parcels—Tartaraci, Rampante Soprana and Barbabecchi—perched on the cooler, northern side of Mount Etna. Here, old, ungrafted Nerello Mascalese vines dig deep into decomposed lava, ash and sand, soils that give low yields and remarkable mineral tension. The altitude and strong diurnal shifts preserve acidity and aromatic lift, while the old terraces help regulate water and temperature. Grapes are generally harvested by hand at optimal ripeness, with careful sorting in the vineyard and at the cellar. In keeping with Cornelissen’s low-intervention philosophy, fermentation typically proceeds with indigenous yeasts, minimal handling and limited additions, allowing Nerello Mascalese and the volcanic terroir to speak clearly in the finished wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMunjebel Rosso VA Vigne Alte 2021 is a superb partner for refined yet characterful dishes: think roast guinea fowl, duck breast with cherries, veal or pork with Mediterranean herbs, grilled lamb chops, or earthy preparations with porcini, truffles and lentils. It also works beautifully with tuna or swordfish served rare, as well as aged semi-hard cheeses. Serve at around 14–16°C (57–61°F) to highlight its aromatic complexity and fine texture. A gentle decant of 30–45 minutes can help the wine unfurl, especially in its first few years, revealing more depth and layering without sacrificing its delicate, high-altitude charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen is one of the pivotal figures of Mount Etna’s modern renaissance, a Belgian-born producer who settled on Etna in the early 2000s with a vision to farm and vinify as transparently as possible. Working with old, often ungrafted vines on steep volcanic terraces, he has become synonymous with a stripped-back, terroir-first approach that helped put Etna Rosso—and Nerello Mascalese in particular—on the international fine wine map. Cornelissen’s crus, including the Vigne Alte bottlings, are now widely regarded as benchmarks for volcanic, high-altitude Mediterranean reds, sought after for their purity, precision and unmistakable sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255507767633,"sku":"XW-54498","price":136.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-munjebel-rosso-va-vigne-alte-2021_54498_1_d236c005-7675-41b6-a8aa-a12514abc674.webp?v=1783459133"},{"product_id":"frank-cornelissen-susucaru-rosso-2025","title":"Frank Cornelissen Susucaru Rosso 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrank Cornelissen Susucaru Rosso is an organically farmed Sicilian red from the northern slopes of Mount Etna, where high-altitude vineyards and active volcanic soils create wines of remarkable energy and individuality. A distinctive blend of Nerello Mascalese, Alicante Bouschet, Minnella Bianca, Nerello Cappuccio and Uva Francesa, it reflects Cornelissen’s pioneering low-intervention approach on Etna since 2001.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wine presents a vibrant ruby-red appearance, with an aromatic, lifted character shaped by red berries, wild herbs and subtle volcanic nuances. On the palate, it is elegant yet structured, combining juicy fruit with lively acidity, fine-grained tannins and a gently mineral finish. The inclusion of white and lesser-known local varieties adds freshness and complexity to the predominantly Nerello-based blend.\n\nSusucaru Rosso is expressive in its youth, but its natural acidity and tannic structure also give it the capacity to develop added savoury and earthy complexity over the short to medium term. As with many minimally handled wines, it may show subtle bottle variation, adding to its individual character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe vineyards are cultivated organically in the northern Etna valley, where volcanic soils, elevation and pronounced day-night temperature variations contribute freshness, tension and mineral depth. The grapes are destemmed and gently crushed before fermentation begins spontaneously with indigenous yeasts via a pied-de-cuve. After approximately 30 days of skin maceration, the wine is matured in neutral fibreglass vessels, allowing the fruit and terroir to remain at the forefront without the influence of oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIts vibrant acidity and structured, mineral palate make Susucaru Rosso a natural partner for grilled or roasted meats, pork dishes, lamb, richly seasoned vegetables and mature cheeses. Serve lightly cool, around 14–16°C, to highlight its freshness and aromatic lift. Decanting is not essential, though a brief decant or some time in the glass can help the wine open and reveal greater nuance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank Cornelissen has been a defining figure in Etna’s modern wine renaissance since establishing his estate in 2001. Working with old vines and a strongly nature-focused philosophy, he has built an international reputation for expressive, low-intervention wines that capture the dramatic personality of Mount Etna. Susucaru Rosso is one of the estate’s most recognisable cuvées, bringing together local varieties in an energetic and authentic expression of Sicilian volcanic terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Frank Cornelissen","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54852035314001,"sku":"XW-62419","price":28.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/frank-cornelissen-susucaru-rosso-2025-0.png?v=1789384267"}],"url":"https:\/\/bottlehero.com\/collections\/frank-cornelissen.oembed","provider":"Bottle Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}