Tenuta delle Terre Nere Etna Calderara Sottana Rosso 2020

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant but best to open it an hour before service. Located in Sicily, Tenuta delle Terre Nere is the creation of Marco de Grazia, an Italian-American who has been able to understand since the 90s, the enological potential of Nerello Mascalese in this specific area on the northern slopes of the Etna volcano. The estate extends over about 27 hectares of vineyards cultivated organically since 2002, and distributed over various plots located between 600 and 1000 meters above sea level. Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana is made with selected grapes harvested from ancient vineyards (between 50 and 100 years old), located at an altitude of 600-700 meters on soils rich in black pumice and basalt, which contribute to the production of wines of great complexity. After fermentation at a controlled temperature, the wine rests in French oak barrels of various sizes for about a year and a half and then for a month in the bottle. In the glass, the wine reveals a captivating and intense aromatic profile characterized by notes of red fruits intertwined with hints of sweet spices, dried flowers, officinal herbs, and balsamic touches. On the palate, it is well-structured. It is soft and tasty with pleasant saline sensations and a distinctive mineral vein. It is robust and characterful with a strong, well-integrated tannic backbone. The finish is long and recalls mineral notes. Excellent with chicken with peppers or roast duck.

Price: £50.92 from 8wines UK