Tascante Ghiaia Nera
Tascante · Etna DOC, Sicily, Italy
At a glance
- Producer
- Tascante
- Region
- Etna DOC, Sicily, Italy
- Grape variety
- Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $35-$50
Tasting profile
Red berries, wild cherry, volcanic mineral notes, subtle spice
Evolution: Softening of tannins, complexity increases with earth and herbal nuances
At peak: Elegant balance of fruit, minerality and refined tannins with lingering finish
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-high, vibrant and refreshing
- Tannins
- Medium, refined with some suppleness
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Aging potential
- 10-15 years from vintage
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2028 to 2032
- Optimal window
- 2025 to 2035
- Current status
- Approaching early maturity; drink soon or cellar for further development
- Current condition
- Youthful, showing fresh red fruit and minerality
This wine's medium-high acidity and structured tannins from volcanic terroir enable it to evolve over a decade or more while maintaining freshness. The 2022 vintage shows good concentration and balance supporting aging.
Food pairing
Grilled lamb, roasted game birds, mushroom risotto, aged pecorino, hearty Sicilian dishes
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow the medium tannins and rich mineral notes to integrate and open up
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 8/10
Use of cover crops, reduced chemical inputs, water conservation techniques, solar panels for energy
Tascante winery employs sustainable viticulture practices emphasizing soil health and minimal environmental impact. Energy use is curtailed by solar power and efficient water usage. Carbon footprint is mitigated by mostly local distribution, though some exports increase transportation footprint moderately.