Terre Nere Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana 2021

From the renowned Tenuta delle Terre Nere winery, crafted under the expertise of Marco De Grazia, comes the Terre Nere Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana 2021. This red wine comes from Mount Etna’s northern slopes, known for its volcanic soil and long history of winemaking. This wine is made from very old vines. These vines have a strong connection to the land. Each sip of this wine captures the essence of the local terroir. It is also called as tenuta delle terre nere etna rosso.

The Terre Nere winery is meticulous about maintaining a harmonious relationship with nature, evident in their cultivation practices on the rocky, volcanic terrain of Calderara Sottana. This wine is sourced from stony soils rich in pumice and basalt, which are indicative of the vineyard’s rugged landscape.

The harsh conditions and minimal soil fertility stress the vines, concentrating the flavors in the grapes. The winemaking process of terre nere wine includes spontaneous malolactic fermentation in French oak barriques and tonneaux, followed by aging for 16-18 months, and a final refinement in steel for one month before bottling unfiltered.

In the glass, Terre Nere Etna Rosso displays a deep ruby color with a glint of garnet that hints at its youthful exuberance. Its vibrant appearance is a prelude to the complexity of aromas and flavors that follow.

The nose detects a strong mix of red and black fruits, such as cherries and blackberries, with hints of violet flowers. The scents are quickly recognized by the nose. The fruits are predominantly red and black in color. Cherries and blackberries are the main fruits detected. Violet flowers add a subtle hint to the mix. This fruit-driven aroma is beautifully layered with subtle nuances of spice, cocoa, and the distinct minerality of volcanic ash—a signature of its terroir.

On the palate, Terre Nere Etna Rosso reveals a perfect marriage of power and elegance. The entry is robust yet refined, offering a tapestry of flavors that echo the nose.

Juicy red berries dominate, supported by a lively citrusy acidity from hints of blood orange. The medium-bodied structure is supremely balanced, with silky tannins that impart a creamy texture and a hint of chalky minerality, reminiscent of the wine’s rocky origins. The flavor starts with mild spices and transitions to a hint of earthiness. It finishes with a long, creamy taste. The notes of bitter orange and plum are present in the finish.

The finish of this Tenuta Terre Nere Etna Rosso is impressive and lingers after each sip. The finish of this Tenuta Terre Nere Etna Rosso is impressive and lingers after each sip. It has a silky, creamy texture.

This texture reminds us of Don Peppino, a local vineyard worker. Don Peppino cared for these vines for over 70 years. His term “creamy” aptly describes the smooth, enveloping feel of this wine, which leaves a lasting impression of elegance and depth.

Terre Nere Etna Rosso is versatile in its pairing capabilities. Its robust profile complements a range of dishes, from noble poultry to white meat ragù. The wine’s structure and depth make it an ideal companion for richer dishes such as pork loin in milk, rabbit in white wine, or lamb roasted with herbs. Its balance of fruit and minerality also makes it suitable for pairing with aged cheeses and complex, spicy cuisines.

To fully appreciate its breadth of flavors, Terre Nere Etna Rosso should be served at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F). Letting the wine sit for an hour before serving can improve its taste and smell. This can make the wine more enjoyable to drink.

This vintage has not gone unnoticed in the wine world, receiving accolades from several prominent critics. Decanter awarded it 96 points, praising its deep and full aroma and silky finish.

James Suckling gave it 95 points for its vibrancy and juicy, fruit-forward nature. Vinous appreciated its complex and energetic profile, assigning it 94 points. These reviews underscore the wine’s exceptional quality and the mastery behind its production.

The Terre nere etna rosso 2021 stands out as a testament to the unique volcanic terroir of Mount Etna and the skilled hand of winemaker Marco De Grazia. This wine gives more than just a taste – it captures the history and beauty of where it comes from. Whether enjoyed in its youth or allowed to age gracefully, this tenuta delle terre nere etna rosso 2021 promises to deliver pleasure and sophistication with every glass.