Overview Estate Owned by: Silvia Maestrelli and Federico Curtaz Wine Region: Sicilia Winemaker: Federico Curtaz Total Acreage Under Vine: 38 Estate Founded: 2007 Winery Production: 52,000 Bottles

Location The Tenuta di Fessina vineyards are located in Rovitello, a village in the heart of Castiglione di Sicilia. The town was created by the Greeks The estate lies in the shadows of Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, which adds to the mystique of this incredible property. The vineyards sit on lava deposits that add distinct character to each of their wines. Located 2,000 feet above sea level.

History Founded in 2007 by winemaker Silvia Maestrelli, her husband, Roberto Silva, and winemaker Federico Curtaz. Fascinated by the extraordinary beautiful and rich island, they bought a XVIII century palmento, a large covered fermenting vat made of lava stone, which overlooks a 100 year old vineyard, some 17 acres of Nerello Mascalese vines. Natives call the vineyards of the estate, Millicucco, the fascinating and hieratic guardian of the village. In addition to the original property, the winery now includes Chardonnay vineyards in Segesta, and Nero D’Avola vines in Val di Noto.

Owner Silvia Maestrelli Comes from a long line of winery owners and entrepreneurs. Managed Villa Petriolo, the Maestrelli family’s legendary Tuscan property. She and her husband fell in love with the history, culture, and extraordinary natural beauty of Sicily, prompting them to purchase the Tenuta di Fessina winery and estate in Since then, the winery has flourished under Silvia’s guidance, receiving countless awards and accolades.

Winemaker Federico Curtaz Holds a degree in Agricultural Studies and has worked in various areas of the wine industry for over twenty years. Began his collaboration with Silvia Maestrelli and Riccardo Silva nearly ten years ago at Villa Petriolo, where he worked first as an agronomist, and later as a winemaker. In 2007, he purchased Tenuta di Fessina along with Maestrelli and Silva, and has held the position of head winemaker ever since. The chairman of the “Luoghi di Vite,” an association of Italian winemakers that strives to promote Italy’s various wine regions. Federico considers Tenuta di Fessina to be his greatest achievement thus far. As he puts it; “Tenuta di Fessina is the deepest experience for me. The Etna has been a discovery. There, among the rocks that evoke my origins…. I feel at home.”

A’Puddara Bianco Etna DOC 100% Carricante This wine is dedicated to Sicily. Those who look to the night sky can see the Seven Sisters constellation (the Pleiades) outlined elegantly above Mt. Etna. Aromas of ripe fruits and minerality complement undertones of aromatic herbs, flint, and pears. On the palate, the wine has crisp acidity and a smooth body. Pair this wine with oysters, butter-garlic sauces, potato-crusted cod, and baccalhau à bras.

Erse Etna Rosso DOC 80% Nerello Mascalese and 20% Nerello Cappuccio Erse is named after the Greek goddess of sunrise Aromas of crushed berries, plums, and smoky minerality. On the palate, it is a delicate, finely textured red which unfolds into a lengthy, elegant finish. Pair this wine with braised beef, curries, spicy Mexican dishes, or chicken vindaloo.

Il Musmeci Etna Rosso DOC 80% Nerello Mascalese and 20% Nerello Cappuccio This cru wine is dedicated to the Musmeci family, in particular Mr. Musmeci, who, for so many years, has taken care of the vineyards. It has fresh, clear and enticing floral and spice aromas, and on the palate is full of sweetness with hints of oak. Integrated tannins lead to an enjoyable finish. Best served with roast lamb, game or semi-mature cheeses.

Laeneo Sicilia IGT 100% Nerello Cappuccio Harvested from the Santa Maria di Licodia production area; its sandy soil contains ash from the Mt. Etna lava flows, and is located almost 3,000 feet above sea level. Aromas of orchard fruits along with intense spicy notes, red ripe berries and dark stonefruit. The palate will experience soft tannins and intense acidity, with a long finish. Pair with roasted duck and white meats, grilled red meats, game, pasta, and various salumi.