Tenuta delle Terre Nere

Etna

Winemaking on Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily in Italy, is a unique and ancient tradition that has gained significant recognition in recent years. Etna is one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, and its volcanic soil, elevation, and climate combine to create exceptional conditions for grape cultivation and winemaking.

The volcanic soil is rich in minerals and nutrients, making it highly fertile for grapevines. The dark, volcanic ash and lava rock contribute to the unique flavor profiles of the wines, giving them a distinct mineral and earthy character.

Etna is a high-altitude wine region, with vineyards located at various elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,300 feet (400 to 1,000 meters) above sea level. This elevation results in cooler temperatures, which help to preserve acidity and freshness in the grapes, even in the warm Mediterranean climate.

The dominant grape variety is Nerello Mascalese. Nerello Cappuccio, another red grape variety, and Carricante, a white grape variety, are also cultivated here. These grapes are well-suited to the volcanic soil and elevation, producing wines with complexity and elegance.

Etna has a diverse range of microclimates due to its varying elevations, exposure to the sun, and volcanic activity. These allow winemakers to produce a wide range of wine styles, from lighter, more elegant reds to fuller-bodied, age-worthy wines.

The region has a rich history of winemaking dating back thousands of years, but in recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in producing high-quality wines. Many winemakers combine traditional techniques with modern innovations to create exceptional wines.

The region has its own Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) designation, which sets quality standards and regulations for winemaking. This designation helps protect the authenticity and quality of the wines.

Nerello

The Nerello grape is primarily grown on the Italian island of Sicily, specifically in the Mount Etna region. It produces two primary varieties: Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio; both have gained attention in recent years for their role in delivering high-quality, unique wines that reflect their volcanic terroir.

Nerello Mascalese: The dominant grape variety in the Mount Etna region, Nerello Mascalese is known for producing wines with intense aromatics, bright acidity, and a light to medium body. The grapes are thin-skinned, contributing to the wine’s elegant and pale colour. The wines typically have flavours of red berries, sour cherry, cranberry, and sometimes floral notes, with the potential to age well, developing more complex and tertiary flavours over time. As the vines grow on volcanic soils, the wines can also have a distinct minerality and earthiness.

Nerello Cappuccio: Often blended with Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio is typically less prominent and used in smaller proportions, although it can contribute darker fruit flavours, more structure, and deeper colour to the final wine.

Due to their vibrant acidity and medium body, Nerello wines are versatile with food. They pair well with various dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, tomato-based sauces, and seafood.