Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso Terre Siciliane IGT, Sicily, Italy

Dark-ruby and sun-soaked, the 2022 Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso Terre Siciliane IGT opens with an earthy elegance, smoldering volcanic soil, dried black cherries, and crushed herbs. Fermented with wild yeasts and aged in epoxy tanks on the northern slopes of Etna, this wine delivers a raw yet refined portrait of Nerello Mascalese. Textured, fragrant, and deeply rooted in its environment, it’s a soulful expression of lava, altitude, and untamed nature.

Product Details:

• Winemaker/ Owner: Frank Cornelissen
• Varietal: 100% Nerello Mascalese
• ABV: 14.5%
• Closure: Cork
• Farming: Organic and Biodynamic
• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts; pied de cuve; 50-day skin contact
• Aging: 12 months in neutral epoxy tanks (2,500L–7,000L)
• Fining: None
• Sulfites: Minimal, only as needed
• Vegan: Yes

Sensory Description:

Opening with black cherry, dried cranberry, and cracked pepper, this wine reveals smoky mineral notes and hints of fennel and dried roses. Firm yet silky tannins frame a core of ripe red fruit, while bright acidity lifts the structure. The finish is savory and persistent, laced with the signature salt and ash of its volcanic birthplace.

Awards & Accolades:

• 92 — Vinous (2022 vintage)

Winemaker's Background:

Frank Cornelissen established his pioneering estate in 2001, long before Etna’s renaissance began. Based in the commune of Castiglione di Sicilia, his vineyards lie between 650 and 980 meters on Etna’s northern slope, often compared to Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits. With an uncompromising focus on biodiversity and minimal intervention, Cornelissen has become one of the most distinctive voices in natural winemaking. His wines, made without additives and aged in inert vessels, are a study in purity, place, and patience.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 59–61°F. A natural pairing for braised lamb, mushroom ragù, fennel sausage, or grilled pork shoulder. Its complexity and subtle grip also complement aged cheeses, fire-roasted eggplant, and Sicilian-style meatballs.

The 2022 Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Rosso Terre Siciliane IGT is both ancient and elemental, an unfiltered vision of Etna's high-altitude soul, told in a language of fruit, fire, and finesse.