'Munjebel' Bianco Magnum Frank Cornelissen 2023
Winegrower's winesThe Munjebel Bianco is a squeeze of Etna born from a blend of Grecanico and Carricante grapes that come from vines over 40 years old rooted in the lava soil of the great volcano. It is a white wine macreated on the skins for 4 days, characterized by freshness, finesse, intense minerality, and olfactory sensations of ripe yellow fruit, ginger, and underbrush.
The Munjebel Magnum White is a picturesque and original portrait of the great volcano, Etna. It is an extraordinary blend of Grecanico and Carricante from ancient 40-year-old vines that climb the lava stone at altitudes exceeding 1000 meters, where the chill of the snow contrasts with the heat of the lava. It is a white macerated on the skins with the character of a red, as described by its producer Frank Cornelissen, one of the most renowned names in artisanal wine. The story of Frank's winery, a Belgian in the land of Etna, is modern and began recently in 2001, aiming to practice respectful and low-intervention viticulture to preserve the identity of the land and the grape. In the winery, spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts and very low use of sulfur continue. This label is born, faithfully and authentically portraying the Etna territory, and with every sip, it brings us back to that surprising richness and minerality that only the volcano can offer. A volcanic essence, a Sicilian nectar, and the most original purity of the fruit: the wine that touches the soul and warms the heart.
The Munjebel Magnum White comes from Grecanico and Carricante grapes cultivated on the northern slopes in the districts of Calderara, Borriglione, Crasà, and Picciolo. The vines, over 40 years old, are grown in the bush-trained form and root deeply in volcanic soil. The grapes grow lushly in the untouched nature of the area, remaining intact and fertile according to the Belgian's belief. The clusters are hand-harvested, the berries are gently pressed, and the must obtained ferments spontaneously in neutral fiberglass containers. The 4-day maceration on the skins enriches the bouquet and taste with varietal nuances. Aging occurs in neutral fiberglass tanks of 1500-2500 liters.
Cornelissen's Magnum White is cloaked in a veiled ocher yellow robe, edged with golden hues. The nose is a dive into Etna land, revealing itself slowly, almost whispering, and releases delicate aromas of medlar, bitter orange, ginger, and undergrowth that elegantly parade among mineral clouds. The taste unveils a very expressive trident composed of freshness, finesse, and savoriness reinforced by a light tannin that regulates the finish. However, the true playmaker is the minerality, almost intrusive, yet decidedly unique. The white of the interior and the spirit, an expression that must be contextualized to grasp its purest essence. A lesson in life, a lesson in wine!