At a glance

Producer

Graci

Region

Etna DOC, Sicily, Italy

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45 (750ml retail, typical current pricing from Wine-Searcher and Italian merchants)

Tasting profile

Notes of wild red cherry, dried herbs, volcanic ash, sour cherry, leather, and a hint of sweet spice. Medium body with a slightly earthy, mineral streak.

Evolution: Over 3-6 years, tannins soften and integrate; fruit becomes more layered with black cherry, forest floor, and subtle leather/paprika notes emerging. Acidity remains lively supporting freshness.

At peak: At peak, expect harmonious complexity with elegant earthiness, mineral intensity, red and black fruit compote, and well-rounded silky tannins.

Structure

Acidity

High acidity characteristic of Nerello Mascalese and volcanic terroir, aiding freshness and aging potential

Tannins

Medium to medium-plus tannins, firm but well-integrated for a young Etna Rosso

Alcohol

Moderate to moderately high - typically around 13-14.5%, well balanced and smoothly integrated

Aging potential

15+ years with proper cellaring, reaching complexity and tertiary notes around 6-10 years post-vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2045

Optimal window

2023 to 2048

Current status

Ready to drink, will benefit from short-term further aging

Current condition

The 2020 vintage is starting to open up with youthful vibrant structure, tight tannins, and fresh acidity providing a good backbone for continued development.

The peak drinking window from 2026 to 2032 corresponds to the time when Nerello Mascalese tannins fully resolve and integrate, and the vibrant Etna acidity allows gradual development of complex tertiary aromas without losing freshness. The volcanic minerality expresses more distinctly, complementing the evolved fruit and savory layers. After 2032, primary fruit fades gradually and earthiness becomes dominant, signaling slow decline.

Food pairing

Pairs classicly with grilled lamb, wild mushroom risotto, roasted pork, and aged pecorino cheese. The wine's acidity and mineral profile also enhance tomato-based pasta dishes with herbs like oregano and thyme. As the wine evolves and softens, pair with braised game or meat stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45-60 minutes) — To allow tannins to soften and aromatic complexity to open, particularly beneficial for younger vintages like 2020

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Organic farming on volcanic soils, minimal intervention in cellar, focus on biodiversity and soil health

Graci has established itself as a leading organic producer on Mt. Etna with strong commitments to ecological practices, supporting soil vitality and minimizing chemical use.