Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio are two grape varieties that are primarily grown on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy. While they are often blended together in wines from this region, they do have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
One key difference between Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio is the thickness of their skins. Nerello Mascalese has thicker skins, which contribute to higher levels of tannin in the resulting wines. Tannins are natural compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems that add structure and astringency to wines. So, wines made primarily from Nerello Mascalese tend to have more pronounced tannins compared to those made from Nerello Cappuccio.
The fruit character of these two grape varieties also differs. Nerello Mascalese tends to exhibit darker fruit flavors such as black cherry, blackberry, and plum. This gives the wines a more serious and intense profile. On the other hand, Nerello Cappuccio typically displays lighter fruit characteristics like red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry. These lighter fruit flavors can contribute to a more approachable and fruit-forward style of wine.
In terms of aroma, Nerello Mascalese often showcases notes of dried herbs, earthiness, and volcanic minerality. This can add complexity and intrigue to the wines, especially when grown in the unique volcanic soils of Mount Etna. On the other hand, Nerello Cappuccio may exhibit more floral and spicy aromas, which can provide a different aromatic profile to the wines.
While both Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio can be used in blends, it is worth mentioning that Nerello Mascalese is typically considered the more prestigious and sought-after variety. Its thicker skins, higher tannins, and darker fruit character make it well-suited for aging and producing wines of complexity and depth. Nerello Cappuccio is often used to add softness and fruitiness to the blend, complementing the structure of Nerello Mascalese.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have had the opportunity to taste and compare wines made from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio side by side. The differences in tannin levels, fruit character, and overall style were quite apparent. Wines made primarily from Nerello Mascalese tended to have a more robust and structured profile, while those with a higher proportion of Nerello Cappuccio were softer and more approachable. It is truly fascinating to explore the nuances and terroir-driven qualities of these two grape varieties.
To sum up, Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio are distinct grape varieties with their own unique characteristics. Nerello Mascalese has thicker skins, higher tannins, and darker fruit flavors, making it the more serious and age-worthy of the two. Nerello Cappuccio, on the other hand, offers lighter fruit character and softer tannins, adding a touch of approachability to the blend. Both varieties contribute to the diverse and captivating wines of Mount Etna, showcasing the volcanic terroir and the skill of the winemakers who craft these exceptional wines.