At a glance

Producer

Tenuta delle Terre Nere

Region

Etna Rosso DOC, Sicilia, Italy

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese (98%), Nerello Cappuccio (2%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$60

Tasting profile

Red cherry, wild strawberry, floral lift, with hints of volcanic minerality and subtle spicy notes

Evolution: Develops more savory, earthy, and tobacco nuances with tertiary aging; tannins soften and integrate

At peak: Elegant complexity combining vibrant fruit, polished tannins, and expressive mineral character

Structure

Acidity

High, fresh and vibrant

Tannins

Medium to firm, ripe and well-integrated

Alcohol

Around 13.5-14%

Aging potential

High – 15+ years expected due to balanced acidity and tannin structure

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2035

Optimal window

2023 to 2038

Current status

Approaching early maturity with excellent cellaring potential

Current condition

Showing attractive primary fruit notes with emerging complexity and balanced tannins

The 2018 vintage from this producer is noted for structure, purity, and concentration due to warm, dry conditions combined with volcanic soils. These factors yield a wine with great aging potential. The naturally high acidity and firm tannins ensure the wine will evolve gracefully over a 15+ year span, peaking after 10-15 years of bottle age.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, grilled Mediterranean vegetables, aged cheeses, wild mushroom risotto, and hearty pasta with red sauce

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and fully reveal the aromatic complexity and volcanic minerality

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Use of organic viticulture, minimal intervention winemaking, low-impact natural treatments, water conservation measures; vineyards on volcanic slopes promote biodiversity; reduction of synthetic inputs

Tenuta delle Terre Nere is a recognized leader in sustainable viticulture on Etna, certified organic for over a decade. Their commitment to working with the volcanic terroir and natural processes minimizes environmental impact. Packaging choices and local sales channels additionally reduce carbon loading. Overall, the operation scores well on sustainability, with room for improvements like renewable energy use and carbon offsetting.