Munjebel - 2021
Frank Cornelissen
- Region
- Italy » Sicilia » Etna DOC
- Type
- red still, dry
- Producer
- Frank Cornelissen
- Vintage
- 2021
- Grapes
- Nerello Mascalese
- Alcohol
- 14.5
- Sugar
- 1
- Volume
- 750 mL
- Cellar
- not available
Munjebel "classico" is one more estate wine, made solely from Nerello Mascalese grapes sourced from various vineyards. Some of these vineyards are the best parcels where Frank produces cru wines such as Zottorinoto-Chiusa Spagnolo, Feudo di Mezzo-sottana and Porcaria. Other vineyards are specifically designated for this particular wine, such as Rampante sottana, Piano Daini and Crasà. Frank aims to create an interpretation of traditional, well-balanced and rich Northern Valley Etna wine with Munjebel "classico".
The grapes used in the wine come from vines that are 50+ years old on average. The grapes are destemmed, crushed lightly and then fermented using only indigenous yeasts with skin contact for approximately 50 days. The wine is then aged for around 12 months in neutral epoxy tanks ranging from 2500 to 7000 litres in size.
Ratings
The wine opens with a restrained bouquet, primarily showcasing red fruits, leather, and graphite. The aroma, while clean, tends towards the unremarkable side. On the palate, it unexpectedly presents quite powerful and green tannins against a medium body, offering a peculiar contrast. It maintains a degree of freshness, yet overall, it comes across as thin and lacks intrigue. The aftertaste is disappointingly brief, leading to an overall impression that can best be described as mundane. But it's well made and probably just needs more time in the bottle.
Frank Cornelissen
At a glance
- Hailing from Belgium, Frank Cornelissen transitioned from a career as a wine broker to a visionary winemaker, surrounded by exceptional wines from an early age. This unique backdrop set the stage for his future endeavours in the world of viticulture.
- In 2001, Cornelissen established his estate on the slopes of Mount Etna, a region then largely off the radar for most wine aficionados. This choice was both a declaration of independence and a challenge to himself; he was drawn to uncharted territory, free from the weight of tradition and expectations. This move was driven by a blend of pioneering spirit and, perhaps, a touch of masochism. Yet, amidst these challenges, Cornelissen was convinced of Etna's potential to yield wines of extraordinary complexity and character.
- Wine is a cultural product. For Cornelissen, wine transcends its physical form to embody a cultural expression. It's not just a beverage but a narrative of the land, the climate, and the myriad human decisions that guide its journey from vine to bottle.
Frank Cornelissen's journey into the world of winemaking is a tale of passion, innovation, and a deep respect for nature. Originating from Belgium, where he was surrounded by fine wines, Cornelissen embarked on a path less travelled, setting his sights on the volcanic soils of Mount Etna in Sicily. In 2001, he established his vineyard in a region then little known among wine connoisseurs, driven by a belief in the land's untapped potential to produce wines of remarkable complexity and distinction.
Cornelissen's approach to farming and winemaking diverges from conventional methods, including biodynamic practices, which he consciously opts out of. His philosophy is rooted in a purist, almost radical (in a good way), interpretation of natural winemaking. He focuses on minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard's unique terroir and the inherent qualities of the grape varieties to express themselves freely. This means eschewing additives and cultivated yeasts in favour of indigenous ones, and avoiding the use of barrels to ensure the purest expression of the vineyard's character.
At the heart of Cornelissen's winemaking philosophy is the belief that wine is a cultural artefact – a narrative of its environment, the climate, and the human touch that guides its creation. This perspective drives his meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the winemaking process, from the careful selection of vineyard sites to the thoughtful handling of the wine at every stage of its development.
Cornelissen's wines are a reflection of his commitment to authenticity and excellence. They challenge conventional tastes and invite enthusiasts to explore the deeper, more nuanced layers of wine's relationship with its origins. Through his innovative practices and philosophical approach, Frank Cornelissen has not only redefined winemaking in the Etna region but has also contributed to the broader conversation about sustainability and authenticity in the world of wine.