Bruno Ferrara Sardo Coscienza Aumentata 2020

● Type: Red
● Dry/Sweet: Dry
● Vintage: 2020
● Grapes:
● Farming: Organic
● Winemaking: Maceration in stainless steel.
● Alcohol: 12%

Bruno Ferrara Sardo owns less than two hectares of vineyard in Randazzo, located in Contrada Allegracore. At 700 meters above sea level on Etna's north side, he crafts a natural wine. Producing between 2,000 and 4,000 bottles annually, his sole focus is the Nerello Mascalese grape.

The vineyards have a history, once belonging to his grandfather. They are a testament to memories of Bruno's youth, days spent with his grandfather amidst the vines. In the early '90s, a young Bruno took on the responsibility of these vineyards.

At that time, Etna was filled with ancient terraces, often neglected due to their challenging cultivation. Over 30 years, Bruno witnessed the "gold rush" on Etna. The region became a sought-after destination for Americans, Chinese, Sicilians, Tuscans, and renowned wine houses alike.

Yet, Bruno remains dedicated to his two hectares. He balances his time between the land in Randazzo and his family in Tuscany. His philosophy is simple: embrace the rich land and produce natural wine. Avoiding chemicals, he only uses copper and sulfur when essential. In the winery, his approach is hands-off, letting the true essence of Nerello Mascalese shine. The result? A wine that's pure, genuine, robust, and profound, mirroring the land it comes from.

Sicily, an island located off the southern tip of Italy, boasts a rich winemaking history that dates back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, recognized the island's potential for viticulture. Over the centuries, various cultures have contributed to the evolution of Sicilian winemaking.

In recent decades, there's been a resurgence in the global interest surrounding Sicilian wines. This is partly due to the growing trend towards organic wine and natural wine production, practices that many Sicilian vintners have adopted.

Sicily's diverse topography and climate play pivotal roles in its winemaking. The island's unique position in the Mediterranean Sea ensures a temperate maritime climate. The presence of Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, enriches the soil with volcanic minerals, providing a distinctive terroir.

The combination of consistent sunshine, moderate rainfall, and varied elevations across the region allows for the cultivation of a broad spectrum of grape varieties. The volcanic soils, in particular, are highly conducive to organic and natural wine production, as they naturally deter many pests and diseases.

Sicily produces a wide range of wines, both red and white. The region is renowned for its indigenous grape varieties, such as Nero d'Avola and Grillo. Nero d'Avola, a robust red variety, is known for its deep color and rich, fruity character. Grillo, on the other hand, is a white grape variety producing wines with a fresh and zesty profile.

Natural wine production is on the rise in Sicily. Vintners are increasingly opting for minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the winery. The resulting wines are expressive, showcasing the true essence of the region's terroir.