2019 Girolamo Russo " Feudo" Etna Rosso, Sicily, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

Made from 100% Nerello Mascalese, the 2019 Feudo comes from a single parcel in the San Lorenzo contrada, known for its balance of power and finesse. Vines average 70+ years old, rooted in sandy, decomposed lava soils at roughly 650 meters elevation on the cooler northern slope of Mount Etna. The Feudo site combines altitude, drainage, and sun exposure to yield grapes of exceptional aromatic and structural complexity.

Farming is certified organic, with a hands-off philosophy that promotes biodiversity and soil vitality. The grapes are harvested manually, fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, and aged for 14–16 months in large neutral Slavonian oak casks. No fining or filtration is used, preserving the integrity of the site.

Compared to other Etna Rosso crus, Feudo shows more tension and precision, with tighter tannins and a cooler, more linear fruit profile. The 2019 vintage in particular was cool and long, enhancing aromatic purity and balance. This wine is an excellent match for duck confit, roasted game, or earthy vegetarian dishes such as lentils with wild mushrooms.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Girolamo Russo is a small, artisanal estate founded by Giuseppe Russo in 2005. Named after his father, the winery is located in Passopisciaro and focuses entirely on high-altitude, old-vine Nerello Mascalese and Carricante. Giuseppe, a former concert pianist, brings a thoughtful, minimalist approach to both farming and winemaking, emphasizing clarity, site transparency, and elegance.

Russo farms about 15 hectares spread over several contrade, all with old vines and unique soil compositions. The winery’s hallmark is its ability to balance volcanic intensity with Burgundian finesse, producing wines that are both intellectual and deeply pleasurable. Feudo is consistently one of the most restrained and age-worthy of his reds, embodying the soul of Etna’s noble terroir.