Frank Cornelissen

'Munjebel PA' Rosso 2021

From the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, Frank Cornelissen’s 2020 ‘Munjebel PA’ Rosso is an elemental expression of Sicily’s most dramatic terroir. Hand-harvested from high-altitude vineyards and fermented with native yeasts, the wine was matured in clay amphorae to preserve its freshness and textural complexity. Aromas of red cherry, wild herbs, and volcanic minerality lead to a medium-bodied palate with fine tannins and vibrant acidity. Limited in production, ‘Munjebel PA’ embodies Cornelissen’s philosophy of minimal intervention and pure vineyard expression, offering a rare glimpse into the rugged, high-altitude slopes of Mount Etna. The result is a wine that feels alive, grounded in its volcanic soils, and unmistakably reflective of Sicily’s unique natural character.

Frank Cornelissen is one of the main figures behind today’s Etna wines’ popularity. He established his estate in 2001 on the northern part of the Sicilian Island, back when Etna as a wine region was relatively still undiscovered. 

Frank farms 24 hectares of vines mostly planted to the indigenous variety Nerello Mascalese, in the most traditional way, avoiding all treatments where possible. Instead, the estate idealises inter-plantation of fruit trees and beehives to regain a complex ecosystem. 

From the Estate range to the single vineyard cuvées (specific crus with individual expressions, produced and bottled only in exceptional vintages), the wines showcase the incomparable volcanic terroir with intensity and uniqueness – textural, yet with lively freshness and endless length.