Terre Nere : Calderara Sottana 2021

A complex red wine from the volcanic terroirs of Etna

The estate

Located at between 600 and 1,000 metres of altitude in the heart of Sicily, Tenuta delle Terre Nere is at the top of Italian viticulture. Like an island within an island, the estate enjoys a prime location on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Today, at the head of more than 45 hectares, Marco de Grazia gives life to exceptional wines, always with the same philosophy: that of succeeding in the feat of producing the best possible grapes in this extreme climate.

The vineyard

Stony and sloping, the soil of Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana stands out for its black basalt and pumice stones. The term "calderara" refers to the warmth that the stones give off on the cold nights that are typical of the region, a subtlety that allows for extremely concentrated grapes.

This terroir owes its particularities to the lava flows that Etna experienced in the past, over 60,000 years ago. On the northern slopes of the vineyard, only three grand crus are made from this "pure elliptical terroir" - Bocca d'Orzo, Calderara Sottona and San Lorenzo. Calderara Sottana is a single plot of land located between 600 and 700 metres above sea level with vines aged between 50 and 100 years old. Classified as a DOC Etna Rosso, Calderara Sottana is one of the most prestigious wines in Sicily. The vines are pruned using the gobelet method.

The grape variety

Nerello Mascalese (100%)

Indigenous varietal to Sicily, this black grape promises elegant, powerful wines with round tannins and a pronounced acidity.

Winemaking and ageing

Tenuta delle Terre Nere's Calderara Sottana 2021 underwent alcoholic fermentation with temperature control (28-30°). Malolactic fermentation and maturation took place in French oak barrels for 16 to 18 months followed by one month in vats.

Characteristics and tasting tips for Calderara Sottana 2021 from the Terre Nere estate

Tasting

Colour
This wine is a pale ruby red colour that shimmers with mahogany highlights.

Nose
Intense and powerful, the aromatic bouquet reveals notes of ripe fruit and spices.

Palate
Structured by a beautiful tannic framework, the palate enchants with its fullness and complexity.

Food and wine pairing

This Italian wine pairs marvellously with red meats and mature cheeses.

To serve

Taste this wine at a temperature between 18 and 20° inclusive.