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Sicily: A Unique Wine Region with a Rich and Ancient History
Sicilian viticulture is one of the oldest in the Mediterranean basin. As early as antiquity, the Phoenicians introduced grape varieties and spread their expertise. The Greeks then brought major innovations, particularly pruning techniques, marking a turning point in vine cultivation. Under the Roman Empire, Sicilian wines, such as Malvasia and Mamertino, became highly prized throughout the Empire. However, the Muslim conquest in the 9th century interrupted this dynamic, as wine production was forbidden by Islamic law.
It was not until the 18th century that Sicilian wine experienced a new boom, thanks to John Woodhouse, an English merchant who developed the famous fortified Marsala wine. This wine, enriched with alcohol for sea transport, paved the way for international recognition of Sicilian wines. In the 20th century, despite the devastation of phylloxera, Sicily modernized its techniques and introduced appellations such as DOC and DOCG, strengthening its position on the global wine scene. The contributions of the Phoenicians remain a cornerstone of this rich history.
A Terroir Marked by Etna and Geological Diversity
Sicily is a volcanic island whose landscape is shaped by Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Rising to 3,313 meters, Etna profoundly influences local viticulture. Its volcanic soils, rich in minerals, offer a unique environment, particularly favorable to indigenous grape varieties such as Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. The vineyards located on the slopes of the volcano, between 300 and 1,000 meters above sea level, benefit from optimal exposure and significant temperature variations between day and night, promoting grape ripening and the aromatic complexity of the wines.
Beyond Etna, the island presents a varied geology. The calcareous soils of the southeast, fertile and well-drained, are ideal for grape varieties such as Nero d'Avola. The alluvial plains of Catania and Licata, meanwhile, offer a rich substrate for diversified crops, while the inland hills and western mountain ranges provide suitable terrain for quality viticulture.
A Mediterranean Climate with Pronounced Contrasts
The Sicilian climate is typically Mediterranean, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. However, climatic variations within the island are significant. The arid south, swept by the sirocco – a hot, dry wind from the African desert – is ideal for resilient grape varieties such as Grillo and Catarratto. The mountainous areas and the slopes of Etna benefit from cooler temperatures, favoring elegant and well-balanced wines.
Despite moderate annual rainfall, concentrated between October and April, water management remains crucial, especially in summer when crop needs increase significantly. Modern irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, have made it possible to secure yields while limiting the impacts of water stress, although environmental challenges persist.
A Land of Innovation and Tradition
Today's Sicily is a model of coexistence between tradition and innovation. Its indigenous grape varieties, such as Nero d'Avola, Frappato, Grillo, and Inzolia, reflect an exceptional and diverse viticultural heritage. Sicilian winemakers, while building on this heritage, adopt modern practices to optimize quality and sustainability.
Areas like Etna DOC, where wines fully express the volcanic terroir, and Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG, renowned for its delicate blends, illustrate the island's expertise. Furthermore, the gradual conversion to organic and natural production methods demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental preservation.
Sicily: An Invitation to Discovery
Sicilian viticulture is much more than an industry: it embodies the soul of the island. From the powerful and elegant reds from the slopes of Etna to the fresh and fruity whites from the coastal plains, each bottle tells the story of this unique territory. With its heritage, geological diversity, and exceptional climate, Sicily remains a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those seeking authentic discoveries.
Wineries Featured in Our Abbazia San Giorgio Shop
Located on the island of Pantelleria, Abbazia San Giorgio is an emblematic winery founded in 2015 by Battista Belvisi and Beppe Fontana. The vineyard spans 3.5 hectares in Khamma, where indigenous grape varieties such as Zibibbo, Carignano, and Nerello Mascalese are cultivated using biodynamic methods. The vines, averaging 60 years old, are trained in the alberello system, a technique listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Abbazia San Giorgio is recognized for its natural wines, fermented with indigenous yeasts and without added sulfites, which capture the essence of the volcanic island and its unique character.
Corvagialla
Founded in 2007 by Beatrice Arweiler, Corvagialla is a family estate located in Lazio. Certified organic since 2018, it applies regenerative agricultural practices and a "0/0" philosophy in the cellar, without any inputs or chemical manipulation. The wines of Corvagialla, crafted by Niccolo Arweiler since 2021, reflect the interaction between the soil and the seasons. With a production focused on sustainability and respect for nature, this estate offers unique wines, true to their origin.
Gismondi
Antonio and Anabel Gismondi perpetuate a family tradition in Cerreto Sannita, in the Benevento mountains. On 2 hectares of organic vineyards planted at 350-380 meters above sea level, they cultivate indigenous grape varieties such as Malvasia di Candia, Falanghina, and Sangiovese. Since 2019, they have been producing natural wines without inputs, aged in stainless steel tanks, which marry mountain freshness with the aromas of southern Italy.
Frank Cornelissen: The Unmissable Sicilian Winemaker
Frank Cornelissen, our main Sicilian winemaker, is located on the northern slopes of Etna, at altitudes ranging between 600 and 1,000 meters. Founded in 2001, his estate covers 24 hectares, including 13 hectares of old alberello vines, a traditional system that highlights indigenous grape varieties such as Nerello Mascalese.
Cornelissen adopts a radical approach to agriculture, avoiding treatments, including organic ones, as much as possible to preserve the natural balance. His vines coexist with fruit trees, regenerative crops, and bees to recreate a sustainable ecosystem. His low yields (300 to 600 g per plant) and late harvests guarantee perfectly ripe grapes.
Cornelissen's wines, such as the prestigious Magma®, are a global benchmark. Produced from Nerello Mascalese on exceptional soils, this cuvée embodies excellence. Alongside it, MunJebel® and Susucaru® offer accessible expressions while reflecting the authenticity of Etna.
Cornelissen stands out for his delicate vinifications in neutral tanks or terracotta amphorae, preserving the mineral and profound identity of the terroir. He is now recognized as a leading figure in natural wines, offering unique creations that capture the volcanic essence of Sicily.
Emblematic Grape Varieties of Sicily Red Grape Varieties Nero d'Avola
Nero d'Avola, Sicily's emblematic red grape, takes its name from the city of Avola near Syracuse. Grown primarily in the calcareous plains of the island's southeast, this grape variety offers wines with intense hues and complex aromas. It is renowned for its ability to balance sugar and acidity in warm regions, producing wines ranging from light and fruity to complex and full-bodied. Often blended with Frappato or international grape varieties like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, Nero d'Avola is a cornerstone of IGT Sicilia Rosso, embodying the island's diversity and potential.
Frappato
An ancient Sicilian red grape, Frappato is primarily cultivated in the provinces of Ragusa and Syracuse, two regions renowned for their wine production. Appreciated for its delicate aromas of fresh red fruits, it is often blended with Nero d'Avola to produce the famous Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Sicily's only DOCG. Light, fruity, and floral, it embodies finesse in Sicilian wines and offers a refreshing alternative to fuller-bodied reds.
Nerello Mascalese
Typical of the slopes of Etna, Nerello Mascalese thrives between 300 and 1,000 meters above sea level. This late-ripening grape variety produces clear, aromatic, and alcoholic red wines, often blended with other local varieties in the Etna and Faro DOCs. With its subtle aromas and its ability to express the volcanic terroir, it appeals to lovers of elegant and characterful wines.
White Grape Varieties Catarratto
Catarratto, the most widely planted white grape variety in Sicily, is a true local star. Primarily cultivated in the west of the island, it was historically used for Marsala, but today stands out in dry white wines. With aromas of white peach, lemon, and flowers, it produces fruity and round wines, often blended to enhance their complexity.
Inzolia
Originally from western Sicily, Inzolia, also known as Ansonica, is recognized for its floral perfumes and almond notes. Although it sometimes lacks body as a single varietal, it excels in blends with Catarratto or Chardonnay. Used for Marsala and young wines, Inzolia brings a freshness and finesse typical of Sicily.
Grillo
Grillo, another emblematic white grape, was once reserved for Marsala. Since the 1990s, it has shone in dry white wines with aromas of peach, pear, and pineapple. Versatile, it is vinified alone or blended with Inzolia and Catarratto, and adapts equally well to aging in tanks or barrels.
Grecanico
Introduced during Greek antiquity, Grecanico is cultivated throughout Sicily. Vigorous and aromatic, this white grape offers fresh wines with fragrant, floral, and sometimes almond notes. Often compared to Sauvignon, it fully expresses the Sicilian terroir, alone or in blends, and remains a pillar of local viticulture.
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46 products
Susucaru Rosato Rosé 2021,
Frank Cornelissen
The color is intense pink, the nose carries citrus and white flowers, and the palate is fruity, dense, fresh, and delicious, with that delicate bitterness and melancholic bite that is the signature of this wine. Many aficionados eagerly await each vintage of this emblematic cuvée from the master of Etna, and some couldn't imagine their aperitif without it. Susucaru rosato delights rosé lovers and lesser fans alike, those familiar with natural wines and beginners alike. Can we really call it a rosé? Technically yes, in terms of taste and color, this little marvel is both a rosé and a thirst-quenching red. 25% Inzolia, 25% Malvasia, 25% Nerello Mascalese, 25% Moscadella, and all the vines grow directly on the slopes of Etna. A cuvée that remains true to itself.
To find out more
A major figure and universally respected figure in natural wine, Frank Cornelissen is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his contrasting terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil can be enhanced by the naturalness of his wines. The brilliance, the integrity, and the exquisite fruitiness of his vintages earn him the admiration even of those who are reluctant to accept "natural." These are good introductory wines.
His Sicilian azienda is located in Passopisciaro, in the northern Etna Valley. It is, he says, the "Night Coast" of Etna for the great diversity of its wines spread over many locations (contrade) at different altitudes. The climate is continental and harsh, even snowy, in winter, but very warm and sunny from June to September. The altitude gives the wines tension and elegance. The vines coexist with a Mediterranean mixed crop: olive trees, almond trees, vegetable gardens... (Frank also produces olive oil). The vines range in age from forty to over one hundred years. The nineteen plots, covering twenty-four hectares in total, are all at altitude, between 600 and 900 meters, on several volcanic flows. They are all vinified separately: Frank decides on the blend based on the quality of the wines from each plot. In general, seven or eight vintages are produced in addition to the generic wines (rosé, basic red, and white). The soils are made up of different types of basalt, between powder and rock, with perfect drainage that allows for the production of concentrated and refined wines. Nerello Mascalese dominates the estate's grape varieties. This great traditional red grape variety from the northern valley of Etna is the only grape variety used in the great vintages. Its growing cycle is long, which allows the vine to work the soil and capture its minerality in the fruit. Other grape varieties include: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Cattaratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante, etc.
Susucaru Rosato Rosé 2022
Frank Cornelissen
The Susucaru Rosato blend is a tribute to Sicily and Mount Etna: 25% Insolia, 25% Malvasia, 25% Nerello Mascalese, 25% Moscadella, and all the vines grow directly on the slopes of Mount Etna. The color is intense pink, the nose carries citrus and white flowers, and the palate is fruity, dense, fresh, and delicious, with that delicate bitterness and melancholic bite that is the signature of this wine. Many aficionados are impatiently waiting for each vintage of this emblematic cuvée from the master of Etna, and some couldn't imagine their aperitif without it. Susucaru rosato delights rosé lovers and lesser fans alike, those initiated into natural wine as well as beginners. Can we really call it a rosé? Technically yes, in terms of taste and color, this little marvel is both a rosé and a thirst-quenching red. A cuvée that remains true to itself. "Our rosé," explains Frank Cornelissen, "is produced with the same philosophy and winemaking techniques as all our other wines: skin-contact maceration for texture and territorial identity, fully completed malolactic fermentation for density, fluidity, and stability. It's not just a refreshing summer wine; it's also a "rosé" that can also be considered a light red, like a "Jura" wine, which pairs well with a wide variety of dishes." »
To find out more
A major figure and universally respected figure in natural wine, Frank Cornelissen is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his contrasting terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil can be enhanced by the naturalness of his wines. The brilliance, the directness and the exquisite fruitiness of his vintages earn him the admiration even of those reluctant to accept "natural." They are good introductory wines.
His Sicilian azienda is located in Passopisciaro, in the north of the Etna valley. It is, he says, the "côte de Nuits" of Etna for the great diversity of its wines spread over numerous locations (contrade) at different altitudes. The climate is continental and harsh, even snowy, in winter, but very warm and sunny from June to September. The altitude gives the wines tension and elegance. The vines coexist with a Mediterranean mixed crop: olive trees, almond trees, vegetable gardens... (Frank also produces olive oil). The vines range in age from forty to over one hundred years. The nineteen plots, covering twenty-four hectares in total, are all at altitude, between 600 and 900 meters, on several volcanic flows. They are all vinified separately: Frank decides on the blend based on the quality of the wines from each plot. In general, seven or eight vintages are produced in addition to the generic wines (rosé, basic red, and white). The soils are made of different types of basalt, between powder and rock, with perfect drainage that allows for concentrated and refined wines. Nerello Mascalese dominates the estate's grape varieties. This great traditional red grape variety from the northern valley of Etna is the only grape variety used in the great vintages. Its growing cycle is long, which allows the vine to work the soil and capture its minerality in the fruit. Other grape varieties include: Nerello Cappuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Cattaratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante…
Munjebel Rosso Red 2017
The Munjebel 2017 from Frank Cornelissen is the purest expression of Nerello Mascalese, the emblematic grape variety of Etna. This natural wine, with no added sulfites, comes from a careful blend of several plots in the northern valley of the volcano, some of which are responsible for the estate's most prestigious vintages: Zottorinoto-Chiusa Spagnolo, Feudo di Mezzo-Porcaria, and Pontale Palino. In addition, there are vines specially dedicated to this cuvée, located on the volcanic terroirs of Rampante, Piano Daini, and Crasà.
At first glance, its translucent ruby color and radiant seduces with its elegance. On the nose, the wine reveals an intense and refined aromatic palette: wild red fruits, black cherry, raspberry, mixed with touches of sweet spices and smoky minerality, typical of the basaltic soils of Etna. On the palate, the Munjebel 2017 combines depth and finesse. It presents structured but silky tannins, vibrant acidity and an almost airy texture reminiscent of certain great Burgundies. The balance between the richness of ripe fruit and the mineral tension makes this a wine of great complexity and remarkable length.
With its significant aging potential, this Munjebel gains depth with age, but can already be enjoyed today after decanting. Served between 16 and 18°C, it will pair wonderfully with grilled prime rib, lamb with wild herbs, or mushroom risotto.
Munjebel White 2019,
A key figure in natural wine, a universally respected figure in this category of wines, Frank Cornelissen is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his contrasting terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil can be enhanced by the naturalness of his wines. The brilliance, integrity, and exquisite fruitiness of his vintages earn him the admiration even of those reluctant to accept "natural." They are good introductory wines.
His Sicilian azienda is located in Passopisciaro, in the northern Etna Valley. It is, he says, the "Night Coast" of Etna for the great diversity of its wines spread over many locations (contrade) at different altitudes. The climate is continental and harsh, even snowy, in winter, but very warm and sunny from June to September. The altitude gives the wines tension and elegance. The vines coexist with a Mediterranean polyculture: olive trees, almond trees, vegetable gardens... (Frank also produces olive oil). The age of the vines ranges from forty years to over one hundred years. The plots, nineteen in number, on twenty-four hectares in total, are all at altitude, between 600 and 900 meters, on several volcanic flows. They are all vinified separately: Frank decides on the blend based on the quality of the wines from each plot. In general, seven or eight vintages are made in addition to the generic wines (rosé, basic red and white). The soils are made up of different types of basalt, between powder and rock, with perfect drainage that allows for concentrated and fine wines.
Nerello Mascalese dominates the estate's grape varieties. This great traditional red grape variety from the northern valley of Etna is the only grape variety used in the great vintages. Its growing cycle is long, which allows the vine to work the soil and capture its minerality in the fruit. Other grape varieties include: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Cattaratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante...
Produced on mid-altitude plots from Grecanico Dorato and Carricante in equal parts, on the Calderara, Borriglione, Crasà and Picciolo plots, this white is very ripe. It combines beautiful concentration, freshness, and oriental aromas: orange blossom, jasmine, dried apricot. The vines are over forty years old; the grapes are destemmed, lightly crushed, and macerated for about four days. No fining, no sulfiting, and light filtration before bottling. This wine pairs well with an almost infinite variety of dishes, meat and fish, oysters and shellfish, and all Asian cuisines.
Munjebel White 2020,
The white version of the Munjebel cuvée combines beautiful concentration, freshness, and oriental aromas: orange blossom, jasmine, and dried apricot. Produced on mid-altitude plots from equal parts Grecanico Dorato and Carricante, in the Calderara, Borriglione, Crasà, and Picciolo plots, this white wine is extremely mature. The vines are over forty years old; the grapes are destemmed, lightly crushed, and macerated for about four days. No fining, no sulfiting, and lightly filtered before bottling. This wine will pair with an almost infinite variety of dishes, meat and fish, oysters and shellfish, and all Asian cuisines.
To find out more
A great must-have and universally respected figure in natural wine, Frank Cornelissen is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his contrasting terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil could be highlighted by the naturalness of his wines. The brilliance, the directness and the exquisite fruitiness of his vintages earn him the admiration even of those reluctant to go "natural". They are good initiation wines.
His Sicilian azienda is located in Passopisciaro, in the northern Etna valley. It is, he says, the "Night Coast" of Etna for the great diversity of its wines spread over many locations (contrade) at different altitudes. The climate is continental and harsh, even snowy, in winter, but very warm and sunny from June to September. The altitude gives the wines tension and elegance. The vines coexist with a Mediterranean polyculture: olive trees, almond trees, vegetable gardens... (Frank also produces olive oil). The age of the vines ranges from forty years to over one hundred years. The plots, nineteen in number, on twenty-four hectares in total, are all at altitude, between 600 and 900 meters, on several volcanic flows. They are all vinified separately: Frank decides on the blend based on the quality of the wines from each plot. In general, seven or eight vintages are made in addition to the generic wines (rosé, basic red and white). The soils are made up of different types of basalt, between powder and rock, with perfect drainage that allows for the production of concentrated and fine wines.
Nerello Mascalese dominates the estate's grape varieties. This great traditional red grape variety from the northern valley of Etna is the only grape variety used in the great vintages. Its growing cycle is long, which allows the vine to work the soil and capture its minerality in the fruit. Other grape varieties include: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Cattaratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante…
Crucella Red 2020,
La Vinicola di Antonio Gismondi
Crucella is known for its undergrowth, mineral, and earthy nose, a lively and acidic attack on the palate, red fruits, cherry on the retro-olfaction, and tannins less present than the deep color would suggest. Certainly a good wine for laying down that will blossom with time. The only red from the estate, it is a beautiful blend of Merlot (33%), Sangiovese (34%), and the ancient local grape variety Freisa (33%), which imparts a slight hint of musky red fruit, but the overall wine is well balanced. The harvest macerates for five or six days in stainless steel vats, then the wine is aged for seven to ten months in the same type of vat.
Find out more
Antonio Gismondi's azienda is located in Cerreto Sanita, in the Benevento region of Campania. A microclimate gives this area an almost continental feel: humid winds from the Tyrrhenian Sea collide with the first ramparts of the Apennine mountain range, causing condensation in the air and lowering temperatures, which are significantly cooler and more humid than on the coast. If we add a temperature inversion phenomenon between day and night, which is common in the Apennine climate, the freshness of the wines from the Antonio Gismondi estate is nothing mysterious in this southern Italy, which is nevertheless known for its very hot climate. The estate is family-run: for generations, the Gismondi family has cultivated vines and made wine using the most traditional and natural methods, to which biodynamic techniques are added. For a long time, of the fifteen tons of grapes produced each year, one ton was reserved for on-site winemaking for family consumption, with the rest going to the local wine cooperative. It was their meeting with Massimo Marchiori and Antonella of Partida Creus that led Antonio and his wife Anabel to start producing natural wines at home from the entire harvest. The two-hectare vineyard is located between 350 and 380 meters above sea level, on clay and stony soils, with two-thirds facing south. The grape varieties are Merlot, Freisa and Sangiovese for the reds, and Falanghina and Malvasia di Candia for the whites.x
Magnum Munjebel VA Red 2016
Frank Cornelissen
This pure Nerello Mascalese produced under the IGP Terre Siciliane comes from the basalt soils of the three highest plots (Vigne Alte) of the Cornelissen estate, rich in biodiversity: Tartaraci (1,000 m above sea level), Monte Dolce (870 m), and Pettinociarelle (890 m). It perfectly expresses the excellence of the old, ungrafted Nerello Mascalese vines grown on the high terraces of the northern valley of Etna. It is the estate's most Burgundian vintage, with the most pronounced acidity. A balanced, structured, gourmet, and easy-to-drink cuvée, it offers plenty of crisp fruit without ever being too easy. A certain bite and freshness typical of the estate. A perfect table red, it pairs well with roasted farm-raised chicken.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Magma Rouge 2013
Frank Cornelissen
Frank Cornelissen's grand cru is, as expected, a wine for aging. It reveals the remarkable depth of the Nerello Mascalese grape variety, grown on the Barbabecchi plot, planted with ungrafted, pre-phylloxera vines, over a hundred years old, at an altitude of 910 meters on the slopes of Mount Etna. Skin maceration takes place for sixty days on destemmed and lightly crushed grapes. No fining, no sulfites, and light filtration before bottling. With a very dense texture, this red is more mineral than fruity (the fruit notes are candied: blackberry, prune, all roundness and melted tannins). Its depth and power are balanced by great freshness. Possibility of traces of volatile acidity, quickly vanished with decanting.
Natural wine without added sulfites.
Munjebel Red 2022,
The traditional essence of Etna in an iconic cuvée
The Munjebel 2022, a pure Nerello Mascalese, is a true ode to the unique terroirs of the northern Etna valley. Made with grapes from the estate's best plots (Zottorinoto-Chiusa Spagnolo, Feudo di Mezzo-Sottana, Porcaria) and from vineyards selected for this cuvée (Rampante Sottana, Piano Daini, and Crasà), this wine reflects Frank Cornelissen's vision of a balanced, traditional, and rich wine. Vinified in destemmed maceration for one month and aged briefly in vats, it combines freshness and maturity.
A rich and spicy Nerello Mascalese
The Munjebel 2022 seduces with its bright and deep ruby color. On the nose, it reveals captivating aromas of spices, ripe red fruits and a minerality typical of basalt soils. On the palate, it impresses with its elegant structure and fine tannins, perfectly balanced by a fruity sweetness and vibrant freshness. The finish, long and harmonious, leaves a spicy and slightly saline imprint, characteristic of the great wines of Etna. Best enjoyed between 14 and 16°C, after decanting to express all its richness.
A gastronomic wine par excellence
This generous and balanced red is the ideal companion to grilled or sauced red meats, Mediterranean-flavored stews and mature cheeses. It fits perfectly into a gourmet meal, enhancing each bite with its aromatic complexity.
With extended aging potential, the Munjebel 2022 stands out as a classic and masterful interpretation of Nerello Mascalese, rooted in tradition and enhanced by Cornelissen's expertise.
Crucella Red 2019
La Vinicola di Antonio Gismondi
The estate's only red, Crucella is a beautiful blend of Merlot, Sangiovese, and the ancient local Freisa grape variety, which imparts a slight hint of musky red fruit, but the Sangiovese dominates. The harvest macerates for five or six days in stainless steel vats, then the wine is aged for seven to ten months in the same type of vat. Crucella is characterized by a nose of undergrowth, mineral and earthy, a lively and acidic attack on the palate, red fruit, cherry on the retro-olfaction, and tannins that are less present than the deep color would suggest. Definitely a good wine for laying down that will blossom over time.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Susucaru Rosso Red 2024
Frank Cornelissen
Frank Cornelissen's Susucaru Rosso, now a cult wine, takes us to the heart of Etna's black lands for a unique expression of natural Sicilian red wine. Produced as IGP Terre Siciliane, this 2024 vintage is a blend of Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Capuccio, Minnella, Alicante Bouschet, and Uva Francesa, organically grown on high-altitude volcanic soils.
A natural wine, precise and profound
The grapes are destemmed then macerated for a month, before fermentation with indigenous yeasts without the addition of oenological inputs. Aging takes place for one year in epoxy tanks, a neutral material that preserves the integrity of the fruit and the finesse of the terroir. Here, everything is done to translate the minerality and tension of Etna's slopes, while maintaining remarkable drinkability.
Between finesse and structure
The nose is intensely floral and fruity, blending violet, dark fruits, sweet spices, and a slightly smoky touch. On the palate, the texture is tannic but fluid, with a lively attack, a generous core, and a peppery, saline, energetic finish. The style is both rustic and modern, elegant but unadorned.
Decant and share
Serve decanted for 30 minutes, between 16 and 18 °C. Susucaru Rosso pairs well with spicy dishes, red meats, grilled foods, charcuterie, or simply as an aperitif for those who appreciate natural red wines with strong personalities. Aging potential: up to 5 years.
Munjebel MC Rouge 2016, Frank Cornelissen
This pure Nerello Mascalese comes from the Contrada Monte Colla, a very steep, terraced plot with magnificent sun and wind exposure, just opposite Mount Etna. The soil is sandy clay. The vines, planted in 1946, produce a rich, powerful, and elegant wine. It's a bit like Etna's hermitage. The harvest is destemmed and lightly crushed, then macerated for sixty days. No fining, filtration before bottling.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Magma Red 2020
Magma is Frank Cornelissen's classic red grand cru. Produced organically (Eurofeuille label) and biodynamically, and classified as DOP (AOP) Sicilia-IGP Terre Siciliane Nerello Mascalese, it is a wine for laying down, produced only in great vintages, when phenolic maturity is reached. It comes from old, ungrafted Nerello Mascalese vines, planted in 1910 on the Barbabecchi contrada, at an altitude of 910 m, renowned for capturing the first rays of the sun in the cool of the morning.
Vinification
This natural, organic, and biodynamic wine is obtained by sixty days of skin maceration of destemmed and lightly crushed grapes. No fining, no addition of sulfites. Light filtration before bottling.
Tasting
Magma restores the remarkable depth of Nerello Mascalese. Rich and elegant, with a dense texture, it has character, personality, and great finesse. More mineral than fruity, it offers notes of secondary fruits (blackberry, prune) and melted tannins. This great wine requires great dishes: we recommend stewed beef or coq au vin. So think about a can of Isabelle Leydier Delavallade or Fermiers du Bord de Sèvre.
Learn more about Frank Cornelissen
A key and universally respected figure in natural, organic and biodynamic wine, the Belgian Frank Cornelissen, a winemaker conquered by Sicily, is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil could be highlighted by the naturalness of his wines.
An ideal terroir for plot-by-plot vinification
In Passopisciaro, Sicily, in the north of the Etna valley, the 19 plots cover 24 hectares of basalt soils spread over numerous localities (contrade) between 600 and 900 meters above sea level on the side of the volcano. It is, says Frank Cornelissen, the "Night Coast of Sicily". Frank Cornelissen's contrade are all cultivated biodynamically and vinified separately: he decides on the blends based on the quality of each.
The nobility of Nerello Mascalese
Nerello Mascalese is the dominant variety and alone makes up the greatest vintages. This traditional red grape variety from the northern Etna valley produces hypermineral wines due to its long growing cycle. Other grape varieties in the azienda: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Catarratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante…
Magnum Munjebel White 2020,
The white version of the Munjebel cuvée combines beautiful concentration, freshness, and oriental aromas: orange blossom, jasmine, and dried apricot. Produced on mid-altitude plots from equal parts Grecanico Dorato and Carricante, in the Calderara, Borriglione, Crasà, and Picciolo plots, this white wine is extremely mature. The vines are over forty years old; the grapes are destemmed, lightly crushed, and macerated for about four days. No fining, no sulfiting, and lightly filtered before bottling. This wine will pair with an almost infinite variety of dishes, meat and fish, oysters and shellfish, and all Asian cuisines.
To find out more
A great must-have and universally respected figure in natural wine, Frank Cornelissen is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his contrasting terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil can be highlighted by the naturalness of his wines. The brilliance, the directness and the exquisite fruitiness of his vintages earn him the admiration even of those reluctant to go "natural". They are good initiation wines.
His Sicilian azienda is located in Passopisciaro, in the northern Etna valley. It is, he says, the "Night Coast" of Etna for the great diversity of its wines spread over many locations (contrade) at different altitudes. The climate is continental and harsh, even snowy, in winter, but very warm and sunny from June to September. The altitude gives the wines tension and elegance. The vines coexist with a Mediterranean polyculture: olive trees, almond trees, vegetable gardens... (Frank also produces olive oil). The age of the vines ranges from forty years to over one hundred years. The plots, nineteen in number, on twenty-four hectares in total, are all at altitude, between 600 and 900 meters, on several volcanic flows. They are all vinified separately: Frank decides on the blend based on the quality of the wines from each plot. In general, seven or eight vintages are made in addition to the generic wines (rosé, basic red and white). The soils are made up of different types of basalt, between powder and rock, with perfect drainage that allows for the production of concentrated and fine wines.
Nerello Mascalese dominates the estate's grape varieties. This great traditional red grape variety from the northern valley of Etna is the only grape variety used in the great vintages. Its growing cycle is long, which allows the vine to work the soil and capture its minerality in the fruit. Other grape varieties include: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Cattaratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante…
Magnum Munjebel Blanc 2016, Frank Cornelissen
Produced on mid-altitude plots from equal parts Grecanico Dorato and Carricante, on the Calderara, Borriglione, Crasà and Picciolo plots, this white is very mature. It combines beautiful concentration, freshness and oriental aromas: orange blossom, jasmine, dried apricot. The vines are over forty years old; the grapes are destemmed, lightly crushed and macerated for about four days. No fining, no sulfiting, light filtration before bottling. This wine will pair with an almost infinite variety of dishes, meat and fish, oysters and shellfish, and all Asian cuisines.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Produced on mid-altitude plots from equal parts Grecanico Dorato and Carricante, on the Calderara, Borriglione, Crasà and Picciolo plots, this white is very mature. It combines beautiful concentration, freshness and oriental aromas: orange blossom, jasmine, dried apricot. The vines are over forty years old; the grapes are destemmed, lightly crushed and macerated for about four days. No fining, no sulfiting, light filtration before bottling. This wine will pair with an almost infinite variety of dishes, meat and fish, oysters and shellfish, and all Asian cuisines.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Munjebel MC Red 2020
Cornelissen
Munjebel MC, an organic (Eurofeuille), biodynamic, and natural red wine from Sicily, is produced by Frank Cornelissen. It is classified DOP (PDO) Etna Rosso/IGP Terre Siciliane Nerello Mascalese. It comes from the Contrada Monte Colla, a very steep terraced plot, beautifully exposed to the sun and wind, directly opposite Mount Etna. The Nerello Mascalese vines, planted in 1946, grow on sandy-clay soil.
Vinification
The harvest is destemmed and lightly crushed, then macerated for sixty days on the skins. The wine is aged for 18 months in vats and 18 months in bottles. No fining, light filtration.
Tasting
Rich and powerful, with elegance, Munjebel MC is a bit like the hermitage of Etna. Intense color of a deep and saturated red, notes of red rose and wild red fruits. Body, richness and thickness, aromatic palate supported by a fresh acidity. You will pair it with red meats and Mediterranean dishes. Try a Bigorre black ham or a grilled or roasted wagyu from Maison Aitana.
Learn more about Frank Cornelissen
A key and universally respected figure in natural, organic, and biodynamic wine, Belgian Frank Cornelissen, a winemaker captivated by Sicily, is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil could be highlighted by the naturalness of his wines.
An ideal terroir for plot-by-plot vinification
In Passopisciaro, Sicily, in the north of the Etna valley, the 19 plots cover 24 hectares of basalt soils spread over numerous localities (contrade) between 600 and 900 meters above sea level on the side of the volcano. It is, says Frank Cornelissen, the "Night Coast of Sicily". Frank Cornelissen's contrade are all cultivated biodynamically and vinified separately: he decides on the blends based on the quality of each.
The nobility of Nerello Mascalese
Nerello Mascalese is the dominant variety and alone makes up the greatest vintages. This traditional red grape variety from the northern Etna valley produces hypermineral wines due to its long growing cycle. Other grape varieties in the azienda: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Catarratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante…
Magnum Munjebel Red 2015
This Munjebel is a bouquet of wild red fruits, pure classic Nerello Mascalese, rich and aromatic, carrying all the crunch of ripe fruit, with a Pinot Noir edge and a brilliant translucent color. It comes from several plots, including those from which the azienda's greatest vintages come (Zottorinoto, Feudo di Mezzo-Porcaria, Pontale Palino), and from vines specially dedicated to this vintage: Rampante, Piano Daini, and Crasà. Among Frank Cornelissen's vintages, it best represents the typicality of the northern valley of Etna.
Natural wine without added sulfites.
Cloé Rosé 2017
Abbazia San Giorgio
Cloé is a Nerello Mascalese from the Sicilian estate Abbazia San Giorgio, planted on terraces. The grapes grow on volcanic soils poor in organic matter. Harvested at the end of September, they undergo a brief maceration, then are aged in stainless steel vats and chestnut barrels for 6 months. This is a rosé with character, boasting great freshness in addition to its floral aromas.
Munjebel VA Red 2020
Cornelissen
Made from pure Sicilian Nerello Mascalese (PDO/DOP Etna Rosso and PGI Terre Siciliane Nerello Mascalese appellations), Munjebel VA is an organic (Eurofeuille), biodynamic, and natural red wine produced by Frank Cornelissen. It is a blend of the estate's three highest vineyards (Vigne Alte), rich in biodiversity: Tartaraci (1,000 m above sea level), Rampante Soprana (870 m), and Barbabecchi (910 m). The soils are basaltic and the ungrafted vines are on average 90 years old.
Vinification
The Nerello Mascalese grapes are destemmed and lightly crushed before a 50-day fermentation-maceration on the skins. The wine is aged for 18 months in vats and 18 months in bottle. No fining, light filtration.
Tasting
Munjebel VA is the estate's most Burgundian vintage, with the most pronounced acidity. Balanced, structured, gastronomic, and easy to drink, it offers plenty of crisp fruit, without ever being too easy. This wine magnificently expresses the excellence and precision of the old, ungrafted Nerello Mascalese vines located on the high terraces of Etna's northern valley. At the table, it goes with everything, and especially with a good roast poultry, to be chosen from the Ferme du Vidalies or the Collectif de la Noire d’Astarac-Bigorre.
Learn more about Frank Cornelissen
A key and universally respected figure in natural, organic and biodynamic wine, the Belgian Frank Cornelissen, a winemaker conquered by Sicily, is a classic. This man of constant questioning lives in human and cosmic resonance with his terroir: he has demonstrated that the powerful minerality of a great volcanic soil could be highlighted by the naturalness of his wines.
An ideal terroir for plot-by-plot vinification
In Passopisciaro, Sicily, in the north of the Etna valley, the 19 plots cover 24 hectares of basalt soils spread over numerous localities (contrade) between 600 and 900 meters above sea level on the side of the volcano. It is, says Frank Cornelissen, the "Night Coast of Sicily". Frank Cornelissen's contrade are all cultivated biodynamically and vinified separately: he decides on the blends based on the quality of each.
The nobility of Nerello Mascalese
Nerello Mascalese is the dominant variety and alone makes up the greatest vintages. This traditional red grape variety from the northern Etna valley produces hypermineral wines due to its long growing cycle. Other grape varieties in the azienda: Nerello Capuccio, Minella Bianco, Minella Nera, Alicante Bouschet, Malvasia, Catarratto, Moscadella, Grecanico Dorato, Carricante…
Munjebel White 2022,
A high-altitude Zibbibo revealing the elegance of Etna
The Munjebel White 2022 is a brilliant interpretation of the Zibbibo grape variety, born on the basaltic soils of Etna. This natural and biodynamic cuvée, vinified using destemmed maceration and aged for 6 months in amphorae, reflects Frank Cornelissen's commitment to wines that reflect the purity and richness of Sicily's volcanic terroir. With a fascinating complexity and vibrant freshness, this vintage lends itself equally to special occasions and gourmet meals.
A tasting full of vivacity and depth
To the eye, the Munjebel White reveals a bright and vibrant golden yellow color. The nose is complex and charming, blending notes of tangy citrus, white flowers and juicy fruits, all enhanced by a saline minerality typical of volcanic terroirs. On the palate, this wine offers remarkable tension, with a silky texture and freshness balanced by a precise structure. The finish, long and elegant, leaves a mark of floral aromas and ripe citrus fruits. Served between 10 and 12°C after decanting, it reveals all its complexity.
A remarkable gastronomic versatility
This dry and refined white wine is the perfect accompaniment to grilled fish, shellfish, Mediterranean vegetables or even white meats. It also lends itself to more daring pairings with spicy cuisine or sophisticated vegetarian dishes. As an aperitif or at the heart of a gourmet meal, this wine enhances every moment.
With an aging potential of 5 years, the Munjebel White 2022 embodies the authenticity and elegance of the great natural whites of Etna, in a unique and memorable expression.
