2/16 Monday Night Wine Dinner: The Wines of Etna

Begin the week the Italian way—around the table with great food, great wine, and genuine company. Each Monday, we highlight a different winemaker or Italian wine region with an intimate three-course prix fixe menu and featured pairings. Meet the winemaker or estate representative, discover the stories behind each bottle, and enjoy dishes inspired by the diverse regional traditions of Italy.

Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are always available. Join us for a weekly celebration of Italy’s terroir, table, and timeless hospitality.

The Wines of Etna with Liz Willette 

This Monday we will be pouring three Sicilian wines produced from indiginous grape varieties, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the often underrated island off the toe of the Italian pennisula. 

The 2021 Eredi di Maio Etna Bianco Superiore showcases 100% Carricante from the small village of Milo, located on the cool, wind-swept eastern slopes of Mount Etna. This particular vintage is taut and mineral-driven with bright citrus, white flowers and a distinct volcanic salinity that balance Etna's smoky tension with Milo's signature elegance and freshness. 

The 2022 Terre di Montalto Etna Rosso from Biancavilla reflects the warmer, southern face of Mount Etna, where Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Capuccio gain depth and generosity. The 2022 vintage offers wild cherry, pomegranate and balsamic notes, framed by fine volcanic tannins. The Nerello Capuccio adds roundness and spice to Mascalese's acidity and structure. The result is an expressive, juicy Etna Rosso that is both fresh and vibrant. 

Finally, the 2022 Tenuta Ballasanti Etna Rosso is a pure expression of Nerello Mascalese innately shaped by the volcanic soils and dramatic elevation. Notes of sour cherry, rose petal and dried herbs are balanced by the wine's bright acidity and silty tannins, offering an elegant and energetic balance of fragility and force.

3-Course Prix Fixe | $65
Wine Pairings | $55