Wines Etna Tenuta delle Terre Nere - Etna Rosso DOC, San Lorenzo - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Tenuta delle Terre Nere's Etna Rosso DOC San Lorenzo 2016 is a stunning red wine from the slopes of Sicily's iconic Mount Etna. Predominantly made from the indigenous Nerello Mascalese varietal, complemented by a smaller portion of Nerello Cappuccio, this cuvée reflects its volcanic origins. The 2016 vintage stands out for its balance and elegance, the result of a growing season marked by moderate temperatures and well-timed rainfall, favouring slower, more balanced ripening and developing refined aromatics. Vinification combines traditional methods with a gentle touch: fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled steel, followed by ageing in large oak barrels. This allows the wine's delicate fruit, minerality, and fine tannins to shine, without heavy oak influence.

Etna is one of Italy's most exciting wine regions, increasingly celebrated for its unique terroir. The vineyards rise up to 1,000 metres above sea level and sit upon mineral-rich volcanic soils. This composition imparts a distinctive character to the wines: a vibrant acidity, remarkable freshness, and pronounced minerality. The climate is noticeably cooler than much of Sicily, with significant diurnal temperature swings between day and night, which contribute further to the finesse and aromatic complexity in the wines. Etna's ancient winemaking traditions, long overshadowed by other regions, are now being rediscovered, and producers like Tenuta delle Terre Nere are at the forefront of this renaissance.

Given its graceful structure and perfumed bouquet of wild berries, dried herbs, rose petals and spice, Etna Rosso San Lorenzo is a highly versatile table companion. It pairs beautifully with Sicilian classics such as caponata, grilled swordfish with capers, or slow-braised lamb with wild herbs. Mushroom risotto, aubergine parmigiana, or even a simple platter of aged pecorino and rustic bread will equally allow the wine's subtlety and freshness to shine.

For optimal enjoyment, decant for an hour to allow the wine to open up, and serve at a cool 16-18°C. This will highlight its complexity and the signature tension between fruit, earth, and acidity that makes Etna reds so compelling.