At a glance

Producer

Tenuta delle Terre Nere

Region

Etna, Sicily, Italy

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$65-$90 USD

Tasting profile

Red cherry, wild strawberry, crushed stone, subtle smoke, and Mediterranean herbs; taut, mineral-driven palate.

Evolution: Over time, develops notes of dried rose, black tea, forest floor, and savory spice.

At peak: At peak, seamless integration of red and black fruit, volcanic minerals, soft florals, and gentle earth notes; long, complex finish.

Structure

Acidity

Racy, bright, typical of high-altitude Etna reds

Tannins

Medium to high, fine-grained, refined

Alcohol

Moderate (13-14%)

Aging potential

Excellent; 8-12 years in optimal conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2031

Optimal window

2025 to 2032

Current status

Young, approachable but built for aging

Current condition

Fresh, vibrant, primary fruit with early integration of structure

Calderara Sottana is characterized by old vines on stony volcanic soils producing wines with great finesse and ageability. The 2022 vintage, from a balanced and classic year, will broaden aromatically and gain texture with 4-8 years of cellaring.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted game birds, mushroom risotto, aged Pecorino, Sicilian caponata.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to high tannins which can benefit from aeration to soften and enhance its flavors. Decanting for 30 minutes will help to open up the wine's aromas and improve the overall drinking experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Organic viticulture with no synthetic chemicals; hand-harvesting; cover crops; minimal intervention; renewable energy for winemaking facilities; water conservation through drip irrigation; lightweight glass bottles.

Tenuta delle Terre Nere is well recognized for its sustainable and organic farming. Their conversion to organic viticulture is certified, with minimal copper use, careful soil management to promote biodiversity, and soft winemaking processes to reduce energy and water consumption. Packaging is eco-conscious and glass is lightweight. The main carbon footprint consideration is international shipping—significant outside Europe—but overall the estate is among the pioneers of sustainable winemaking on Etna.