I Custodi, Pistus Etna Rosso DOC - 2013

I first discovered this wine on my first trip to Rome, eating counterside at a deli-eatery-wine bar. It blew me away. I Custodi - the keepers of the vine, part of the famed I Vigneri, as noted by the embossed old vine on the bottle. The group is based on respect for the land and the common winemaking philosophy: bush-trained vines, native grape varieties, protection of the environment and respect for mankind. Native varieties and the unique Mediterranean microclimate come together in the black volcanic soils watched over by the imposing Mt. Etna, creating a wine bursting with red fruit, morello cherries, etc.. and finishing with exotic vanilla and spice and smoke. 80% Nerello Mascalese, 20% Nerello Cappuccio.