FIRRIATO 2014 SIGNUM AETNAE RISERVA ETNA ROSSO

This is Firriato's special release of a reserve wine from the stellar 2014 vintage; only 3500 bottles were produced. "In the vineyards of Cavanera Etnea estate, you will admire a rare and precious treasure: a pre-phylloxera vineyard. Long-lived, centenarian plants, which are distinguished by the formation of the trunk, often evolved into concentric circles, coils and twisted arms. Creatures that time has forged bringing them to us, full of history. Etna Riserva Signum Aetnae comes from these centuries-old plants. Signum aetnae is the flagship of Firriato’s Etna production, making Nerello Mascalese grapes and other relic varieties in its vineyard at a straight foot. A pre-phylloxera parcel, whose plants were planted before the arrival of the aphid on Etna. This precious Etna DOC Riserva comes from vineyards growing according to the traditional system of the alberello Etneo, at 650 meters on the north-eastern side of the volcano, a vineyard dating back to the second half of the 1800s, which testifies to the centuries-old culture of wine on the most active volcano in Europe." - WINERY NOTES

INTERNATIONAL WINE REPORT 98 POINTS - "The 2014 Sigum Aetnae Rosso Risreva comes from 150 year-old prephilloxera vines within the Cavanera Etnea Estate. It is an absolutely beautiful wine that possesses incredible elegance and refinement, as well as wonderful complexity and character. As this gem slowly unwinds in the glass it releases striking aromatics of sweet red berries, florals and herbs that are accented by smoke, crushed stones and spices all taking shape. On the palate this displays wonderful purity and freshness. It is impeccably balanced with an excellent combination of fruit and acidity. The fine silky tannins firmly wrap it all together as it glides gracefully into the long finish. The Sigum Aetnae Riserva is a simply fascinating wine from Firriato that is drinking remarkably well now, however it should also go on to have a brilliant future ahead."