Sunlight wrapped in volcanic haze, the 2022 Frank Cornelissen ‘Munjebel’ Terre Siciliane Bianco IGT opens with lifted aromatics of orange peel, quince, and citrus blossom. Fermented and aged in fiberglass, this skin-contact white is raw yet elegant, with a distinctly Etnean core of salt, smoke, and stone. The texture is fine-grained and slightly grippy, but the finish glides, brisk, floral, and alive with minerality.

Product Details:

• Winemaker/ Owner: Frank Cornelissen
• Varietal: 60% Grecanico Dorato, 40% Carricante
• ABV: 11.5%
• Closure: Cork
• Farming: Natural, Organic, Biodynamic
• Vine Age: 30 years
• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts; 4-day skin maceration in fiberglass
• Aging: 18 months in fiberglass
• Sulfites: Minimal, if any added
• Vegan: Yes

Sensory Description:

The nose opens with layers of candied citrus, orange blossom, and dried herbs, followed by a gentle note of raw honey. On the palate, its structured and ethereal, carrying flavors of white peach, crushed quince, and apricot skin, with a fine tannic edge and a saline, mouthwatering finish. The wines energy builds slowly, leaving behind a trail of volcanic minerality.

Winemaker’s Background:

Founded in 2001 by Belgian-born Frank Cornelissen, this eponymous estate helped define natural winemaking on Mount Etna long before the region became a global darling. Nestled in the northern valley of the volcano, Cornelissens 24 hectares of vines are interspersed with olive groves, fruit trees, and wild flora, creating a dynamic ecosystem. Farming is meticulous and low-intervention, and vinification occurs in fiberglass vessels, an intentional choice that honors the purity of the grape and place. The resulting wines are alive with volcanic identity and Cornelissens singular touch.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 5457F. Pair with smoked trout, roasted fennel, saffron risotto, grilled octopus, or marinated artichokes. The wines texture and subtle grip also make it a striking match for cured meats, sea urchin, or Sicilian-style vegetable dishes.

The 2022 Frank Cornelissen ‘Munjebel’ Terre Siciliane Bianco IGT is a fearless expression of Etnas northern slope, wild, textural, and elemental, shaped by lava, altitude, and a winemaker who listens to the land.