2024 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere Vigne Niche Santo Spirito Bianco, Sicily

Tenuta delle Terre Nere is one of the benchmark estates of Mount Etna, founded by Marco de Grazia after decades championing fine Italian wines on the world stage. He was among the first to recognise the potential of Etna’s old vines and fragmented lava flow vineyards, treating each contrada like a Burgundian cru. Santo Spirito is one of the most prized north facing slopes on the volcano, planted on deep, mineral rich volcanic ash and lava stone soils. The estate farms with meticulous care and minimal intervention, aiming for transparency and longevity.

Vigne Niche represents small, carefully selected parcels within the Santo Spirito contrada, focusing on old vine Carricante that captures both altitude and volcanic tension. Fermentation is precise and controlled, and élevage builds texture without masking the mineral spine. The style is shaped around clarity, tension and quiet power rather than overt richness.

Pale gold in colour, the aromas open with lemon zest, green apple and white peach layered with jasmine, fennel and crushed lava stone. The palate is medium bodied and tightly structured, with citrus and orchard fruit wrapped in bright acidity and a saline, smoky undertone. Flavours extend into a long, mineral finish that feels cool and etched with volcanic character.

It pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled fish, shellfish and Sicilian vegetable dishes. Already impressive for its precision and lift, it will cellar confidently for ten to fifteen years, developing honeyed and nutty nuance while retaining freshness.