Magma Frank Cornelissen 2020

The Magma by Frank Cornelissen is one of the most exciting and vibrant portraits in liquid form of Etna. An emblematic and clear expression of an extraordinary grape variety, such as Nerello Mascalese. Its evocative power is equivalent to a dive into the heart of Etna, among volcanic soils and calibrated temperature excursions. Thirteen hectares of vineyard, located between 600 and 1000 meters above sea level, cultivated with very low yields and a completely non-interventionist approach: this is the splendid reality of Frank Cornelissen, a Belgian who has always been passionate about winemaking before the turning point that occurred at the beginning of the new millennium. In 2001, riding the wave of local pioneers such as Salvo Foti, Frank released his first vintage. The choice of Etna, and more precisely of Solicchiata, a small district located on the northern slope, is dictated by what Frank believes to be a special place for climatic conditions and biodiversity.

The red wine Magma is the flagship wine of Frank Cornelissen, and it is produced from a single vineyard called "Barbalecchi", located at an altitude of 910 meters. The perfect exposure to the north and northeast allows the plants to capture the first rays of sunlight in the morning. The vineyard is more than a century old, it was planted in 1910, and it is able to produce few concentrated fruits of extreme quality. After harvesting and a light pressing, the liquid ferments in contact with its own skins for about 2 months and follows the aging in fiberglass tanks.

The Magma appears in the glass with a light red color, typical of Nerello Mascalese. The nose is intoxicating and overwhelming for the variety of hints that range from crunchy red fruit, to balsamic strokes of wild herbs and spicy touches, all expressed with extreme finesse and graduality. The tasting is surprising for definition and purity, and for its ability to be both so rich and elegant at the same time. A unique experience. A velvet glove.