Astragalus

Soil, altitude and location: This Nerello Mascalese vineyard sits on the Eastern slope of Mount Etna, in Milo area, and rises to an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. The Ionian sea is a major influence on the eastern slope, bringing wind, rain, and cloud cover. The soils are volcanic, composed of gravel and mainly sand.
Year of implantation and training system: The vineyard, which is fifty years old, is trained in a classical Alberello Etneo (bush-tree) system.
Harvest and fermentation: Manual harvest in the early morning and delivery to the cellar in 10 kilos crates. After destemming, the grapes are gently pressed and macerated for about 6 hours. After 12 hours of natural sedimentation, the juice ferments at a controlled temperature in stainless steel.
Maturation: The wine is aged on fine lees for 12 months in 400 and 700 litres French oak tonneaux, during which time weekly battonage is performed. After another 6 months in bottle, the wine is ready for release.