Passopisciaro Contrada C 2020

Passopisciaro Contrada C 2020 is a distinctive Etna red from one of the volcano’s most characterful cru sites, offering the precision of Nerello Mascalese with a notably rounder, fuller texture. Sourced from the small Contrada Chiappemacine at 550 meters above sea level, it reflects a rare balance of volcanic energy, sandstone influence, and cool mountain air. Part of the groundbreaking Contrada bottlings that helped define Etna’s modern identity, it captures both place and pedigree in a highly individual wine.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the wine typically shows a bright ruby hue with the translucent depth that is so often a hallmark of Nerello Mascalese. The nose is lifted and layered, with red berries, dried herbs, floral notes, and a subtle mineral edge, alongside the smoky, earthy nuances that come from Etna’s volcanic landscape. On the palate, Contrada C is fuller and more generous than many Etna reds, with ripe red fruit, a supple mouthfeel, and a round, satisfying core. The sandstone soils at the edge of lava flows contribute softness and breadth, while mountain breezes and deep-rooted vines preserve freshness and tension. It has excellent aging potential, developing greater complexity, savory detail, and elegance over time.

Production
Contrada Chiappemacine is a tiny 1.3-hectare plot in the Contrada C site on the slopes of Mount Etna, planted at 550 meters above sea level. The vineyard sits on sandstone soil near lava flows, with cooling daytime breezes that help moderate ripening and maintain balance in the fruit. The vines’ roots penetrate deeply toward limestone layers, adding structure and mineral complexity to the wine. Harvesting is typically done by hand to ensure only healthy, perfectly ripened Nerello Mascalese grapes are selected, and vinification is carried out with a focus on preserving site expression, freshness, and finesse. The result is a wine that combines Etna’s volcanic character with an unusually complete and rounded profile.

Food & Serving
This wine pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, grilled beef, mushroom risotto, and rich pasta dishes with porcini or tomato-based sauces. It also works well with aged pecorino and other savory, hard cheeses. Serve at around 16-18°C, and consider decanting for 30-60 minutes to let the aromatics open and the texture relax.

Producer
Passopisciaro, founded by Andrea Franchetti, is one of the key names in Etna’s rise as a world-class wine region. The estate became known for its single-contrada bottlings, which highlighted the dramatic differences between individual volcanic vineyards and helped change how Etna wines were understood internationally. Today, Passopisciaro remains a benchmark producer for site-driven Nerello Mascalese wines, admired for their depth, elegance, and sense of place.

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