2021 Tornatore Etna Rosso DOC, Sicily

Fragrant hints of marjoram, incense and leather waft through the plumped cherry and wild strawberry flavors on display in this well-meshed red. Fine-grained tannins provide supple definition as this echoes with good tension and focus on the mineral-laced finish. Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Drink now through 2036. 6,500 cases made.

92 points winespectator.com

Etna wines are beloved for how edgy and serious they are, but Tornatore captures the essence of the volcano and brings a delightfully sunny warmth that develops into a simmering heat to the cool, salty, earth elements of the Nerello in their Etna Rosso.

92 points Danielle Callegari wineenthusiast.com

Tornatore Etna Rosso DOC from Sicily is a beautifully balanced and expressive red wine that captures the volcanic soul of Mount Etna. Made from the island’s noble Nerello Mascalese grape, with a small portion of Nerello Cappuccio, it comes from Tornatore’s family-owned vineyards on the northern slopes of the volcano near Castiglione di Sicilia — an area famed for its altitude, mineral-rich soils and centuries-old vines. Under the guidance of winemaker Vincenzo Bambina, the wine reflects both the purity of its fruit and the power of Etna’s dramatic landscape.

The vineyards sit between 550 and 700 metres above sea level on decomposed lava and sandy volcanic soils. The combination of elevation, sunlight and cool mountain breezes allows the grapes to ripen slowly, developing aromatic complexity while retaining lively acidity. After hand harvesting, the fruit is fermented in concrete tanks using indigenous yeasts, then aged partly in large oak barrels and partly in concrete for about 10 months. This gentle approach enhances texture and balance while preserving the vineyard’s natural expression.

In the glass it shows a translucent ruby colour with garnet edges. The aroma is fragrant and refined, offering red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry alongside notes of rose petal, blood orange, smoky ash and Mediterranean herbs. The palate is medium bodied and elegant, with fine tannins and vibrant acidity framing pure red fruit, mineral and savoury spice. The finish is long and graceful, with a subtle echo of volcanic dust and citrus peel that speaks unmistakably of Etna’s terroir.

It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roast duck, mushroom risotto or Sicilian dishes such as caponata and pasta alla Norma. It also complements aged cheeses and charcuterie. Delicious now for its energy and fragrance, it will evolve gracefully for 8 to 12 years, gaining earthy depth and truffle-like complexity.