Etna Bianco 'Nerina' Girolamo Russo 2024
The Etna Bianco "Nerina" by Girolamo Russo is a white wine of great typicity that reflects the historical tradition of Etna whites. The volcanic soil imparts precious mineral nuances that enrich the fine bouquet made of citrus, white flowers, and marine hints. The sip is centered on a delightful freshness, marked by mineral and savory returns
The Etna Bianco “Nerina” by Girolamo Russo is a splendid version of the great whites of the Volcano. The terroir of Etna has been proving over time to be capable of producing not only elegant and refined reds but also whites of great finesse and longevity. The grapes from old vines and a meticulous care in the winery yield a high-level bottle that highlights the talent of one of the most esteemed signatures of the territory. The crisp freshness typical of Carricante provides an exciting tasting experience, where the ripeness of the fruit, the savory and marine sensations, and the volcanic terroir blend perfectly.
“Nerina” is the most representative Etna Bianco of Girolamo Russo, a winemaker who has managed to maintain an artisanal profile. His winery is located in Passopisciaro, in the municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia, on the northern slope of the volcano. The estate covers a total of 20 hectares, divided into many parcels. The wine is made with a blend that includes a majority percentage of Carricante, completed by a small balance of other native white grape varieties historically present in the ancient vineyards of Etna: Catarratto, Inzolia, Grecanico, Minnella, and Coda di Volpe. The vines are between 50 and over 100 years old, located in the districts of San Lorenzo, Feudo, and Calderara Sottana, at an altitude between 650 and 800 meters above sea level. The soils are of volcanic origin, predominantly composed of sands, and the climate is very cool, sunny, and well-ventilated, with significant temperature swings between day and night. After soft pressing, the must ferments spontaneously with indigenous yeasts. The wine matures 70% in stainless steel tanks and 30% in used tonneaux, and then completes the aging period with 6 months in bottle.
The Etna Bianco “Nerina” wine by Girolamo Russo is the result of the ancient Etna tradition of vinifying all white grape varieties together, often also present within red grape vineyards, as was the habit of promiscuous viticulture in the past. In appearance, it presents a beautiful