Cortese Nostru Nerello Mascalese Sicilian BIO 2023

Cortese Nostru Nerello Mascalese Sicilian BIO is a vibrant organic red that captures the wild, mineral soul of Sicily in a beautifully drinkable style. Crafted from Nerello Mascalese grown on Sicilian soils and vinified with a light touch, it offers an authentic taste of the island’s indigenous grape heritage. This wine stands out for its combination of freshness, fine tannins and true terroir expression, making it a characterful yet versatile red for the table.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, this Nerello Mascalese shows a luminous ruby color with garnet highlights at the rim, hinting at its finesse and freshness. The nose is fragrant and lifted, with notes of red cherry, wild strawberry and pomegranate layered with dried herbs, blood orange zest, crushed roses and a subtle smoky, volcanic edge that is so typical of Sicily. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully poised, with bright acidity and silky, finely grained tannins. Juicy red berry fruit is framed by hints of savory spice, Mediterranean scrub, and a gentle mineral salinity that keeps the wine lively from start to finish. The finish is clean and persistent, with a lingering impression of red fruit and spice. Enjoyable now for its energy and purity, it can also develop additional complexity over the next 3–5 years if stored well.

Production
The Nerello Mascalese for Cortese Nostru is sourced from organically farmed vineyards in Sicily, where warm, sun-drenched days and cooling breezes help grapes ripen fully while retaining freshness. The soils, a mix of sand, clay and stones with a strong Mediterranean influence, contribute both aromatic lift and a subtle mineral backbone to the wine. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure only healthy, perfectly ripe bunches make it to the cellar. In keeping with Cortese’s philosophy of combining modern equipment with traditional methods, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled tanks using gentle extraction to preserve fruit purity and the grape’s naturally elegant structure. The wine is then aged in stainless steel and/or large neutral vessels to maintain freshness and highlight the distinctive terroir rather than oak.

Food & Serving
This organic Sicilian red is an excellent partner for a wide range of Mediterranean dishes, from grilled lamb chops and roasted chicken with herbs to tomato-based pasta, caponata, wood-fired pizza and charcuterie. It also pairs beautifully with aged pecorino, caciocavallo and other semi-hard cheeses. Serve at 16–18°C; a light chill on warmer days can enhance its freshness. Decanting for 20–30 minutes before serving helps the aromatics open up and softens the tannins, especially if you are enjoying it in its youth.

Producer
Azienda Agricola Cortese is located in the renowned Cerasuolo di Vittoria area of Sicily, an historic zone for fine, characterful red wines. Long managed by widow Giovanna Cortese, the estate entered a new chapter in 2016 when it was acquired by Stefano and Marina Girelli, an Italian couple originally from Trento in northern Italy. Determined to showcase Sicily’s potential for high-quality, climate-friendly wines, they have carefully restored and modernised the winery while preserving its traditional soul. Today Cortese is dedicated to certified organic, sustainable production that respects the land and highlights the nuances of its exceptional terroir. The estate has become a reference for those seeking elegant, authentic Sicilian wines that prove just how impressive organic winemaking can be.

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