Munjebel Rosso 'MC' Frank Cornelissen 2021
ArtisanalThe Munjebel Rosso “MC” by Frank Cornelissen is one of the most elegant expressions of Nerello Mascalese from Etna, increasingly a pilgrimage destination for all lovers of great wines. Frank started producing Munjebel from single contrade, the local geographical mentions, and this monolithic red comes from the clay and sandy vineyards of Monte Colla. On the nose, fine hints of red and black fruit are perceived, leading to enveloping citrus aromas and the typical mineral hints, a trademark of the volcano. On the palate, it surprises with its finesse, despite an important structure and great warmth, which meets a pronounced and enveloping savoriness.
The Munjbel Rosso ‘MC’ by Frank Cornelissen is an expression from Etna that impresses with its ability to combine power and elegance harmoniously. The ‘Munjbel’ line was launched by producer Frank Cornelissen to highlight the individual contrade he cultivates and vinifies, including Monte Colla, located in Castiglione di Sicilia, from which the Etna ‘MC’ originates. The term ‘Munjbel’ derives from the combination of the words “mons”, “mountain” in Latin, and “jebel”, “mountain” in Arabic, indicating the mountain of mountains: the majestic volcano Etna.
The Munjbel ‘MC’ Frank Cornelissen Rosso is a pure Nerello Mascalese whose grapes come from the single vineyard of Monte Colla, a plot characterized by steep slopes where well-exposed terraces to the sun and winds are arranged. The vines, planted in 1946, grow on volcanic soils composed of sandy clay, at an altitude ranging between 750 and 780 meters above sea level. The The harvest is done by hand and the bunches then undergo a destemming and light pressing before the alcoholic fermentation initiated through pied de cuve with only indigenous yeasts. The maceration on the skins lasts for a full 50 days while for the subsequent maturation phase, neutral fiberglass tanks ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 liters are used, containers where the wine rests for 18 months until bottling. This is followed by another 18 months of aging in glass.