Tasca

What to look for

• •Bright red colour with a slight garnet edge from age
• •Aromas of red cherry, dried herbs and volcanic stone
• •Silky texture with gentle grip from the tannin

About the producer

Tasca d'Almerita is one of Sicily's oldest and most respected wine families, with roots in the region stretching back centuries. They have been pioneers in recognising the quality potential of Mount Etna's volcanic slopes.

About the year

The 2016 vintage is now eight years old and has softened beautifully. The wine has moved past its youthful fruit into a more savoury, elegant phase where the volcanic character becomes clearer.

Grape characteristics

Nerello Mascalese is the native red grape of Etna, grown on the volcano's black lava slopes. It produces wines that are naturally light in body but complex, with high acidity that keeps them fresh and age-worthy.

About the region

Mount Etna's volcanic soils and cool mountain climate create wines of unusual elegance and finesse. The altitude and the porous lava stone give the wines a distinctive mineral quality and freshness.

Tasting profile

Expect red cherry and wild strawberry with notes of dried herbs, tobacco leaf and a subtle smoky edge from the volcanic terroir. The wine feels delicate but has real presence, with a long, savoury finish.

Serving suggestions

Serve at 14 to 16 degrees Celsius in a standard red wine glass. No decanting needed, though the wine will open up nicely over an hour in the glass.

Also pairs well with

• • Grilled swordfish
• • Pasta with tomato sauce
• • Roasted lamb
• • Aged cheese
• • Mushroom risotto