Munjebel Rosso 'CR' Frank Cornelissen 2020
ArtisanalMunjebel CR is an excellent of Sicily, produced with the Nerello Mascalese grape. The wine grow up on volcanic stone over 700 metres of altitude. No filtration and no additives. Effused notes of red fruits and sweet spieces are the prelude of a fine, elegant and mineral taste.
The Munjebel "CR" is one of the single-vineyard crus of Frank Cornellissen, a true expression of Nerello from the Etna region, a blend of power and juiciness. Few names are as respected and recognized as Frank's in the world of artisanal wine, a true Belgian showman who in 2001 decided to start his project of vine and life on Etna, recovering old Nerello vineyards and other local grapes. Frank's approach is clear and straightforward, as he practices viticulture that is completely respectful of the environment without the use of any chemicals, and he continues confidently in the winery with spontaneous fermentations and minimal use of sulfur. Portraits of a terroir, each year they are changing interpreters, and thus so beautiful and expressive.
The Munjebel "CR" comes from a part of a single vineyard of Nerello Mascalese called "Costa Re" located at about 735 meters above sea level near Randazzo. A single-vineyard wine, therefore, that enhances the particular ability of these grapes to create deep, austere, and more tannic liquids, almost comparable to Nebbiolo from the South. The vines are over 70 years old, and the harvest can only be... to take place manually to respect the few fruits produced, while fermentation occurs spontaneously and the must is made to macerate on the skins for about 2 months. The aging of the liquid takes place in tanks of 1500-2500 liters of neutral resin.
The Red "CR" presents itself in the glass with a light ruby red color, almost transparent. The nose is immediately multifaceted but rarefied, giving very fine hints that must be captured with great patience. It whispers, it does not shout, but gradually proposes in succession cherry, violet, and dog rose all accompanied by incessant mineral puffs. A sip from a true champion, as it has undeniable power but expresses it with an unmatched grace and juiciness, also thanks to the cohesive contribution of salt and freshness. A great wine, outside the box, but endowed with an almost regal bearing that ennobles it. A farmer in a tailcoat!