TASCA + ETNA = TASCANTE

It was surely inevitable that Sicily’s first fine-wine producer (Tasca D’Almerita) would establish themselves on the Volcano. Sicily’s star is ascendant in the wine community, and it seems that when anyone looks at Sicily these days, their eyes are immediately drawn to the island’s most prominent topographic feature, the great volcano Mount Etna. Ghiaia Nera is Tenuta Tascante’s demonstration of the possibilities for Nerello Mascalese from Mt Etna,  the name means “black gravel,”  which describes the volcanic soil of the vineyard. 

2019 Tascante – Ghiaia Nera – Etna Rosso – Nerello Mascalese – $29.95 per bottle – 6’s or 12 packs. Mid May arrival

“Subtle aromas of orange peel, cherries, and dried flowers follow through to a medium body, fine tannins and a refined, subtle finish. Such beauty. So drinkable and fine.” 95 points James Suckling

“Pouring from the bottle with a thin, light ruby color, the 2019 Etna Rosso Nerello Mascalese Ghiaia Nera is a finely textured wine. This delicate approach and those soft footprints make this bottle quite exciting to pour, especially as an easy companion to a homemade pasta dish. It offers wild cherry, tart berry, cassis, crushed stone, smoke and lavender essence. You get great value here.” 92 points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
 
“Lithe and savory, this lovely red has enticing scents of Mediterranean scrub, wild berries, crushed stone and eucalyptus. The polished, savory palate offers wonderful finesse, featuring wild strawberry, pomegranate and star anise alongside flinty mineral notes. Glossy tannins provide elegant support.” 92 points Wine Enthusiast.