Daniele Nardi's website

Tasted on August 25, 2024. #DailyWine #dnardi #Nerello #NerelloMascalese #Sicily #Etna #TenutaDelleTerreNere #TerreNere

Haven’t reviewed an Etna wine yet, so it is time. The producer, Tenuta delle Terre Nere, is one of the references for this volcanic region, and a major pioneer in exporting Etna wines abroad. Etna wines come in all colors (red, white, and rose’), and they often are blends of several indigenous grape varieties. Reds typically are a blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccino, but this specific wine is almost entirely (96%) Nerello Mascalese. The producer makes Etna wines at different tiers of price. This is their “entry level” red.

Dry red wine, 14% alcohol. Medium dark opacity, ruby color. The nose is a bit shut down, low intensity. Floral notes, bitter herbs, rhubarb, plum, and cherry. Medium-full body, medium acidity (less than, say, a Sangiovese), tannins are present but ripe, very smooth. Same flavors in the palate that are in the nose, but now they are very concentrated. The finish is very long.

An elegant wine with an enticing floral and red fruit profile.