Munjebel Rosso 'CR' Frank Cornelissen 2020
Winegrower's winesMunjebel CR is an excellent of Sicily, produced with the Nerello Mascalese grape. The wine grow up on volcanic stone over 700 metres of altitude. No filtration and no additives. Effused notes of red fruits and sweet spieces are the prelude of a fine, elegant and mineral taste.
The Munjebel "CR" is one of the single-vineyard crus by Frank Cornellissen, a true essence of Nerello from the Etna region, a blend of power and juiciness. Few other names are as respected and known as Frank's in the world of artisanal wine, a true Belgian maverick who in 2001 decided to start his vine and life project on Etna, recovering old vines of Nerello and other local grapes. Frank's approach is clear and decisive, practicing viticulture that is completely respectful of the environment without the use of any chemicals, and continuing in the cellar with spontaneous fermentations and minimal use of sulfur. Portraits of a terroir, each year they are changeable interpreters, and for this reason, so beautiful and expressive.
The Munjebel "CR" comes from a part of a single vineyard of Nerello Mascalese called "Costa Re" located at about 735 meters altitude near Randazzo. A single-vineyard wine, therefore, that enhances the particular ability of these grapes to create deep, austere, and more tannic liquids, almost comparable to Southern Nebbiolo. The vines are over 70 years old, and the harvest can only be done manually to respect the few fruits produced, while fermentation occurs spontaneously and the must is macerated on the skins for about 2 months. The liquid is aged in neutral resin tanks of 1500-2500 liters.
The Red "CR" appears in the glass with a light ruby red color, almost transparent. The nose is immediately multifaceted but rarefied, offering very fine hints that must be captured with great patience. It whispers, it doesn't shout, but gradually it presents in succession cherry, violet, and rosehip, all accompanied by incessant mineral puffs. A sip from a true champion, as it has undeniable power but expresses it with unparalleled grace and juiciness, also thanks to the cohesive contribution of salt and freshness. A great wine, unconventional, but endowed with an almost regal bearing that ennobles it. A farmer in a tuxedo!