Graci Quota 1000 Barbabecchi 2016

Drink now through to 2034. No need to decant before serving.

Alberto Graci left behind a fledgling career in banking in Milan when his grandfather passed away in 2004 and instead took over the reins of his family’s winery. The self-taught winemaker is now Vice President of the Consorzio covering the Etna DOC region and produces exceptional wines from his vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna which sit at 600-1000 metres of altitude.

Etna’s most famous black grape variety is Nerello Mascalese, so it’s no surprise that Graci’s flagship wine is crafted from 100-120 year old Nerello grapes grown at over 1000 metres above sea level in the stunning Barbabecchi vineyard. The grapes are grown organically and are typically harvested in November. In the winery they are vinified using wild yeasts and then the young wine matures in oak barrels for 24 months. Before release the wine ages in the bottle for an additional 12 months.

The result is a remarkably elegant red which harmoniously combines rich fruit flavours and a well-developed structure with a vibrant freshness and finesse. On the nose there are hints of red cherry, wild herbs, licorice and ripe plum while the first sip offers a full body, firm tannins and very long finish. This is an excellent addition to any collector’s cellar and will age beautifully over the next decade or more.