In the glass
Aroma: red cherry, brioche, volcanic mineral, citrus
Palate: tart cherry, lemon zest, bready yeast, saline mineral
Gaudensius is Firriato's traditional-method sparkling wine from Nerello Mascalese on the Verzella contrada: fine persistent bubbles, red-cherry vibrancy and volcanic mineral character - a strong contender alongside Murgo's long-established Etna sparkling.
What it pairs with
-
Arancini al burro
Fine bubbles and bright acidity cut through the richness of the fried rice ball. -
Oysters with lemon
Briny volcanic mineral notes and racy acidity are the classic oyster match. -
Prosciutto di Parma and melon
Fine bubbles cleanse the palate between bites; cherry fruit bridges sweet-salty combination.
History
Firriato launched Gaudensius from the Cavanera Etnea estate in 2010, joining Murgo in demonstrating the viability of traditional-method sparkling wines from Nerello Mascalese. The Cavanera resort's location on Etna's north slope at Verzella provides the cool temperatures necessary for developing the wine's fine acidity.
- 2010 — First Gaudensius vintage; Etna traditional-method sparkling established at Cavanera
Facts
- Producer
- Firriato Cavanera Etnea
- Grapes
- Nerello Mascalese
- Classification
- Etna Spumante Brut Metodo Classico
- Oak
- No oak; minimum 36 months on lees in bottle
- ABV
- 12.5%
- Price
- €28-45 at retail
- Drinking window
- 2-8 from disgorgement
- First vintage
- 2010