VV Vigne Vecchie Contrada Sciaranuova Etna Rosso DOC Sicily 0.75L

From old vines on the volcanic bedrock of Mount Etna — the Contrada Sciaranuova V.V. from Tenuta Tascante shows why Nerello Mascalese on Sicily's northeastern flank is thrilling the experts.

Tenuta Tascante belongs to the Tasca d'Almerita family, one of the defining wine dynasties of Sicily. The vineyards of Contrada Sciaranuova are located at an altitude of around 730 meters in ancient lava soils — a terroir that gives the vines extreme minerality and natural freshness, even under the southern sun. The abbreviation V.V. stands for Vigne Vecchie, old vines that strike deeper roots and yield more concentrated grapes.

In the glass, it shows a transparent ruby red, typical for the grape variety. On the nose, pomegranate, red cherry, and dried herbs, underscored by a distinct hint of volcanic rock and blood orange. On the palate, fine, lively tannins, a fresh acid structure, and a long, mineral-spicy finish with notes of lavender and dark earth.

Serve it at 16–17 °C with lamb with a rosemary crust, grilled tuna, or an aged Pecorino Siciliano. It also pairs well with hearty pasta dishes with wild boar sauce.