Tenuta Orestiadi Rosato Nerello Mascalese 2024

Originating from the vineyards of Tenuta Orestiadi, this rosé is born in the hills of Gibellina, in the heart of the Belìce Valley, in western Sicily. The Nerello Mascalese vines are planted at altitude on predominantly clay-limestone soils, well-ventilated and bathed in abundant Mediterranean sunshine. The proximity of the inland hills creates significant temperature variations between day and night, promoting a slow and balanced ripening of the grapes. This terroir imparts an unexpected freshness to the wine, a beautiful tension, and a precise aromatic expression.

Made from Nerello Mascalese grapes harvested at optimal ripeness, this rosé is crafted by gently pressing the grapes to delicately extract color and aromas. The must is then fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and fruity expression of the grape variety. Aging continues for a few months on fine lees, also in stainless steel tanks, before bottling, to maintain the aromatic purity, tension, and finesse characteristic of this Sicilian rosé.

This wine reveals notes of crisp red berries , white-fleshed fruits , and delicate flowers , complemented by subtle citrus touches and a light mineral nuance that underscores its Sicilian origin. On the palate, the attack is lively, driven by refreshing acidity , a supple and elegant body, and a fine, thirst-quenching texture. The clean, slightly saline finish prolongs the fruity and floral sensations, making it perfect for enjoying with a meal or as an aperitif.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!