Winery Spotlight: Girolamo Russo, Sicilia, Italia
Girolamo Russo wines showcase craftsmanship to the highest level, son Giuseppe, now oversees the vines his father started.
Although Girolamo was the mastermind who started the winery, the connection between father son is a bit different than other family generations stories. Girolamo unfortunately passed in the vineyards which resulted in Giuseppe coming home to continue his legacy. Giuseppe, who was traveling trying to make a mark in the music industry, gave up piano and returned home. A talented pianist, his hard work translated to the slopes of Mt. Etna, creating expressions that truly shine on the lava enriched soils. Wines from Etna in general are truly magical, that each sip reveals something new to behold, think about, and enjoy. Girolamo Russo wines are joyful, expressive and showcases pure finesse.
Girolamo Russo “Nerina” Etna Bianco 2019 - “Nerina”, is an Etna Bianco that utilizes multiple native varietals added to the consistent blend of Carricante & Cataratto. Inzolia, Grecanico & Coda di Volpe, all complete the main white varietals used on the island. This reveals a blended white beautifully made while seeing time in stainless steel and a small amount of used oak. The light to medium bodied white has a straw yellow color, aromas of yellow citrus with spice, and a palate that is fresh, savoury backed by minerals and salinity. Nerina is also the name of Giuseppe’s mother, and Girolamo’s wife.
Girolamo Russo “A Rina” Etna Rosso 2018 - Etna Rosso’s have been taken with the utmost respect recently, drawing comparisons to Burgundy in terms of elegance and finesse. A Rina, the entry level red wine is a 90% Nerello Mascalese, 10% Nerello Capuccio blend. It is as true form as Etna Rosso’s should be, rustic, harmonious, volcanic flavors. It is a beautiful ruby red color, notes of leather, cherry, tobacco & plum drives a pleasant drinking experience.
Girolamo Russo Etna Rosato 2019 - This Rosato from Girolamo Russo uses Nerello Mascalese, the most important red varietal grown on Etna, and in my opinion the best in Sicily. The color of this rose visually looks like it borders a white wine, however is just pink enough for French rose lovers. Still showcasing the cherry, strawberry, white pepper and scorched earth of Etna Rosso’s, it is definitely a Rosato worth experiencing. To instill freshness it is aged in only stainless steel.
Girolamo Russo “San Lorenzo” Etna Rosso - San Lorenzo is a contrada (suburb) where these vines are located in Passopisciaro. These contradas are spoken of like Cru’s relevant to French wine. San Lorenzo is one of the top wines in Girolamo Russo’s portfolio. Nerello Mascalese & Nerello Capuccio both impact this Etna Rosso. Intense ruby red color, perfumes of black fruits (black currant, blackberry), herbaceous mint, and a palate that is densely smooth.
