Nerello Mascalese is a black grape variety used for red wine production. It is believed to originally come from Etna (Sicily, Italy). Some studies show that it is a natural cross between Sangiovese and Mantonico Bianco. It is a late-ripening grape variety with relatively big bunches and big, thin-skinned berries. It is susceptible to powdery mildew (oidium) and botrytis bunch rot (grey mold). Nerello Mascalese can be produced as a monovarietal wine, but is often used in blends with different indigenous Italian grape varieties. Classic blending partners are Nerello Cappuccio and Nero d’Avola. Fermentation usually takes place in stainless steel tanks, maturation – in stainless steel tanks, oak barrels or oak vats.