What kind of wine is Etna Rosso DOC “Calderara Sottana” 2019 - Ayunta?

The Etna Rosso DOC “Calderara Sottana” 2019 - Ayunta is a red wine of great personality, an authentic expression of the northern slopes of Etna. It is made from 100% Nerello Mascalese grapes from the “Calderara Sottana” vineyard, characterized by soils rich in volcanic ash and lava pebbles that give the wine a distinct minerality. The vines, many of which are centuries old and trained in the alberello system, offer low yields but of the highest quality, resulting in a wine with a balanced body and an unmistakable elegance, typical of the great Etna reds.

Vintage Details

The 2019 vintage on Etna was characterized by a regular climate, with mild temperatures and excellent diurnal temperature variations. These conditions favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes, ensuring ripe tannins, clear aromas, and a perfect balance between freshness and aromatic intensity. The result is a harmonious wine of great depth and longevity.

Winemaking and Aging

The grapes are harvested strictly by hand, selecting only the best bunches. Fermentation takes place in steel tanks with a long maceration on the skins, which is the contact between the juice and the pomace to naturally extract color and structure. After fermentation, the wine ages for about 15 months in neutral wooden barrels, which enhance its aromatic complexity without overpowering the varietal character of Nerello Mascalese.

Tasting Notes

Color: Luminous ruby red with slight garnet reflections, indicating evolution and concentration.

Nose: The nose opens with notes of ripe red fruits, cherry and raspberry, accompanied by hints of sweet spices, Mediterranean herbs, and a delicate smoky nuance typical of volcanic soils. A fine and complex bouquet that continuously evolves in the glass.

Palate: On the palate, the wine is elegant and vibrant. The body is medium-structured but supported by dense and silky tannins and good acidity, ensuring freshness and balance. The finish is long and persistent, with mineral and spicy notes that invite another sip.

Food Pairings for Etna Rosso DOC “Calderara Sottana” 2019 - Ayunta

This wine is extremely versatile at the table. It pairs perfectly with Mediterranean cuisine dishes and preparations based on white or red meat. Excellent with:

• Tagliatelle with pork or wild boar ragout
• Grilled meats or roasts
• Aged hard cheeses
• Mushroom dishes or eggplant parmesan

Also ideal for those looking for an elegant red to share during an important dinner.

Storage and Aging: How to Store Etna Rosso DOC “Calderara Sottana” 2019 - Ayunta

The Etna Rosso DOC “Calderara Sottana” 2019 - Ayunta is a wine that can be enjoyed immediately for its lively freshness, but also offers excellent aging potential over time.

To store it optimally:

• Keep bottles horizontally in a cool place free of vibrations
• Ideal storage temperature: between 14°C and 16°C
• Avoid direct exposure to light and temperature fluctuations

When stored correctly, it can further refine for 6-10 years, developing more complex and softer sensations, typical of the great Etna reds.