Overview
Alta Mora is the Cusumano family’s Mount Etna estate, created to express the distinctive character of Sicily’s active volcano. Its name translates as “High, Black”, referring to the extraordinary elevation of the vineyards and the dark volcanic soils that define this dramatic landscape.
Made exclusively from Sicily’s indigenous Nerello Mascalese grape, the 2022 Alta Mora Etna Rosso combines fragrant red fruit, volcanic minerality and refreshing structure in an elegant, highly food-friendly style.
Vineyards and Terroir
The fruit was sourced from four contrade on Mount Etna’s northern slopes: Solicchiata, Verzella, Guardiola and Feudo di Mezzo. The vines grow on traditional volcanic terraces at elevations between 600 and 800 metres above sea level.
The combination of altitude, dark lava-derived soils and significant temperature variation between day and night helps preserve freshness while developing aromatic complexity and fine structural detail.
Winemaking
The grapes were harvested by hand and carefully destemmed before fermentation. The wine remained in contact with its skins for approximately 12 days, followed by malolactic fermentation in stainless steel.
It was subsequently matured for six months in large-format oak barrels. This restrained use of oak preserves the purity and mineral character of Nerello Mascalese while contributing additional texture and structure.
Style and Character
An elegant, mineral-driven Etna red with juicy berry fruit, refreshing acidity and a finely structured palate. Large-format oak supports the fruit without overwhelming the wine’s distinctive volcanic personality.
Ratings
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93 Points — Luca Maroni
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92 Points — Vinous
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92 Points — Falstaff
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90 Points — Wine Enthusiast
Wine Details
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Producer: Alta Mora
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Family: Cusumano
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Vintage: 2022
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Region: Etna, Sicily, Italy
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Variety: 100% Nerello Mascalese
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Vineyard Elevation: 600–800 metres
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Vineyard Sources: Solicchiata, Verzella, Guardiola and Feudo di Mezzo
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Maturation: Six months in large oak barrels
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Alcohol: 14%
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Total Acidity: 5.96 g/L
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Residual Sugar: 1.59 g/L
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pH: 3.44
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Total Extract: 29.81 g/L
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Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
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Cellaring Potential: Until 2031 and beyond
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Farming: SOStain-certified sustainable viticulture
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Bottle Size: 750ml
Food Pairing
Ideal with grilled lamb seasoned with rosemary and garlic, mild game dishes, roast meats, pizza, tomato-based pasta, casseroles and medium-aged cheeses.
About Alta Mora
Diego and Alberto Cusumano established Alta Mora with their father, Francesco, after acquiring their first three contrade on Mount Etna in 2013. The family’s ambition was to create estate-grown wines that faithfully express the energy, altitude and volcanic geology of this singular Sicilian landscape.
The winery was constructed using natural materials including lava stone and opus signinum. Natural insulation and biomass energy help reduce its environmental impact, while the lava-rock cellar provides stable temperature, humidity and protection from light throughout the winemaking process.
