Wines Unspecified Tenuta Tascante - Contrada Sciaranuova - 2019

Tenuta Tascante’s Contrada Sciaranuova 2019 is a remarkable red wine hailing from the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy. This cuvée is typically composed predominantly of Nerello Mascalese, the signature grape of the Etna region, celebrated for its elegance and complexity. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a relatively mild and stable growing season, allowing the grapes to reach optimal ripeness while preserving their natural acidity. Vinification often involves a careful manual harvest followed by traditional fermentation methods, which help express both the finesse of the grape and the distinctive character of its terroir. The wine is usually matured in large oak barrels or neutral vessels, offering subtle structure while keeping the fruit and minerality at the forefront.

Etna, situated in north-eastern Sicily, is a region shaped by the unique influence of Europe’s highest active volcano. The vineyards are planted on ancient lava flows, with mineral-rich soils that impart notable freshness and complex savoury nuances to the wines. The altitude—often between 600 and 1000 metres above sea level—coupled with significant diurnal shifts, preserves acidity and encourages slow, steady ripening. The history of winemaking here is ancient, but in recent decades Etna has become renowned for producing some of Italy’s most exciting and elegant reds, often compared to Burgundy for their clarity and age-worthiness.

With its refined tannic structure, vibrant acidity, and aromas of red fruit, wild herbs, and underlying earthiness, the Contrada Sciaranuova pairs beautifully with Sicilian cuisine. Try it alongside dishes such as caponata, roasted lamb with rosemary, or a savoury mushroom risotto. Local cheeses like Ragusano are also excellent companions, as are grilled tuna steaks for a coastal twist. For the best tasting experience, serve the wine at a cool 16-18°C, ideally after decanting for about an hour to allow its nuanced flavours and volcanic minerality to fully emerge.