What kind of wine is Etna Bianco Calderara Sottana DOC 'Cuvée delle Vigne Niche' 2023 - Tenuta delle Terre Nere?

Etna Bianco Calderara Sottana DOC 'Cuvée delle Vigne Niche' 2023 - Tenuta delle Terre Nere is a white wine of great character, produced entirely from Carricante grapes, an indigenous variety symbolizing the white wines of Etna. It originates from the prestigious Calderara Sottana district, on the northern slope of the volcano, where the vines – some of which are over 60 years old – grow on volcanic and stony soil at approximately 600 meters above sea level. This unique terroir gives the wine a distinctive personality: fresh, savory, and deeply mineral. It is an elegant white with a modern style, perfect for those seeking a label that combines authenticity and refinement.

Vintage Details

The 2023 vintage on Etna was characterized by a balanced climate, with mild temperatures and excellent diurnal temperature variation. Spring rains ensured good water reserves, while the dry summer favored a slow and complete maturation of the Carricante grapes. The result is a wine with an intense aromatic profile and perfectly balanced freshness.

Vinification and Aging

The vinification of Etna Bianco Calderara Sottana DOC 'Cuvée delle Vigne Niche' 2023 takes place in stainless steel, to best preserve the fragrance and purity of the fruit. Fermentation occurs at a controlled temperature, without the use of wood. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine remains on its lees for several months, a technique called “sur lie,” which increases its aromatic complexity and softness on the palate. The result is a white wine of great finesse and depth.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, it presents a bright straw yellow color, traversed by slight greenish reflections that attest to its vibrancy and youth.

Aroma

The bouquet is elegant and complex: notes of ripe citrus and white flowers blend with mineral hints and aromatic herbs. A delicate nuance of flint anticipates the typical volcanic imprint of the Etna terroir.

Taste

On the palate, it stands out for its lively acidity and pronounced savoriness, which make the sip dynamic and pleasantly balanced. The long, mineral finish leaves a clean and fresh sensation, a distinctive characteristic of great Etna white wines.

What dishes to pair with Etna Bianco Calderara Sottana DOC 'Cuvée delle Vigne Niche' 2023 - Tenuta delle Terre Nere

This white wine is best enjoyed with seafood dishes and delicate preparations. Ideal pairings include:

• raw fish and tuna or salmon tartare;
• spaghetti alle vongole (clams) or seafood risotto;
• baked or grilled fish with aromatic herbs;
• fresh and goat cheeses.

Thanks to its structure and aromatic complexity, it also elegantly accompanies vegetarian dishes and light white meats.

Storage and Aging: how to store Etna Bianco Calderara Sottana DOC 'Cuvée delle Vigne Niche' 2023 - Tenuta delle Terre Nere wine

Etna Bianco Calderara Sottana DOC 'Cuvée delle Vigne Niche' 2023 - Tenuta delle Terre Nere is a wine that can be enjoyed immediately to appreciate its freshness and vibrancy, but it also reveals its evolutionary potential over the next two or three years. For perfect storage:

• keep the bottle in a horizontal position, away from light;
• maintain a constant temperature between 12 and 15°C;
• avoid sudden temperature changes and excessively dry environments.

Over time, it will develop more complex nuances, while retaining its mineral and refined soul, a distinctive trait of great Etna white wines.