Region: Etna, Sicily, Italy

Varietal: 100% Nerello Mascalese

Producer: Nestled on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, the Scammacca del Murgo estate has been in the same family since 1860, making it one of the region’s oldest continuously operated wineries. In 1990 they pioneered sparkling wine from the indigenous Nerello Mascalese grape, an unusual and visionary move at the time. The 2020 Brut Metodo Classico embodies that legacy—blending tradition with the volcanic terroir of Etna to produce one of Italy’s most distinctive sparkling wines.

Vineyard & Winemaking: The vineyards lie at elevations of approximately 500–600 m on terraces of volcanic sand and lava-silt near Santa Venerina, where Nerello Mascalese thrives in the cool mountain breeze and rich mineral soils.  The winemaking is purposeful and traditional: hand-harvested fruit is gently pressed, fermented in stainless steel, and then undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle (metodo classico) followed by at least 36 months on the lees.  This extended aging adds fine texture and complexity while maintaining a clear sense of place.

Tasting Notes: The 2020 shows a pale golden hue with persistent, fine bubbles. On the nose: white flowers, crisp apple skin, delicate brioche, and a hint of volcanic minerality. The palate is focused and elegant—bright acidity frames juicy orchard fruit, subtle citrus peel, and a saline core. Feelings of chalky stone and light almond texture carry into the finish, which is long and poised. Already accessible, yet with enough structure to reward a few more years of cellaring.