Etna

Barbazzale Rosso presents itself in dark purple and is a beautifully primary-fruity and solid Nerello from Cottanera. On the palate, it convinces with complex aromas of black berries and mocha. Full, harmonious and ducely fruity, with beautiful tannin, then an interesting fine bitter note in the long fresh finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Juicy mulberry, blackberry, raspberry, orange and herb notes here, with a medium body and powdery tannins. Fruity and bright." James Suckling

Ulysse presents itself in a strong ruby red colour with garnet-red reflections. Attractive aromas of black cherries, redcurrants, raspberries, violets and spices emanate from the glass. Cherry, plum, tobacco and liquorice on the medium-bodied palate, followed by the typical Nerello elegance that makes Etna reds so attractive. Lots of juice and acidity on the final, making you want to take the next sip. SUPERIORE.DE

Brilliant straw yellow. Aromas of lime zest, herbs and light flowers. Juicy on the palate with a fine acid wire; a medium-long, mineral finish rounds off this beautiful white from Etna. SUPERIORE.DE

Sweet cherries, flowers, spices and a hint of mint on the nose. Firm yet harmonious tannin in the lively, very intense flavour, which never feels heavy but elegant until the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Etna Rosso Erse keeps me returning to the glass to take in its vibrant and spicy bouquet, where sour cherries complement dried roses, cloves and a hint of fresh mint. This wine is round and juicy, yet pure, with mineral red berries that saturate, while the lively acidity maintains a fantastic freshness. A subtle coating of fine tannins and a salty note define the final, while the 2020 tapers off smoothly and grippily under a hint of red flowers. This is an excellent entry-level Etna Rosso." Vinous

"The entry-level Tenuta di Fessina 2020 Etna Rosso Erse is elegant and lean with a fun set of aromas that recall white pepper, wild berry, blue flower and candied orange peel. I like this fresh, snappy style and you get great value." Wine Advocate

Brilliant dark orange colour. Subtle aromas and flavours of red cherry and pink flowers, clean and fresh on the palate, very aromatic and balanced taste with a slightly salty-spicy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Alta Mora Rosso is a blend of fruit from the Verzella, Solicchiata, Feudo di Mezzo and Guardiola vineyards, which lie between 650 and 900 metres above sea level. Light, bright garnet in colour, very clear bouquet with pronounced fresh fruit notes of berries and rhubarb, elegant on the palate with well-balanced power and supple tannins; juicy, persistent and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet colour. Open, delicate bouquet of redcurrant jelly, raspberry, followed by some sweet mocha and cocoa. Round and supple on the palate, unfolds with fine-meshed tannins, juicy and stimulating to drink. Long, pleasantly acidic final." Falstaff

"The 2021 Etna Rosso is very beautiful, with a fresh blend of dried roses, black cherries and cloves. It is round and soothing in nature, with lifted textures and crisp wild berry fruit. The 2021 finishes with a nice tension and ends with lingering notes of dried strawberries and citrus." Vinous

Beautiful, single-varietal white from Carricante from Planeta's Etna Dependence. A youthful, exuberant growth full of freshness, energy and minerality. Grown under exclusive conditions on volcanic soils and at an altitude of 870 metres, this wine is an exceptional pleasure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Warm light yellow; openly fruity, pronounced, appealing; sweet, full-fruity, ripe pear, concentrated, dense, very nice." (JLF) Merum

"The 2022 Etna Bianco Contrada Taccione is wickedly fresh, displaying an herbal-tinged bouquet of lime, peach and mint. This opens with a pleasant inner sweetness as a burst of zesty acidity enlivens its tart orchard fruits. The 2022 tapers off crunchy, with a flourish of salinity and an inner smoky sensation." Vinous

"The nose is light, fresh and gentle, with coherent but compelling aromas of citrus, yellow apple and white flowers. The palate is lemon-driven, but a hint of salt brings out a honey-nut element and a lingering apple note." Wine Enthusiast

"A bright, fragrant, mineral white wine with delicate notes of broom and pine. With flavours of nectarine, persimmon, blanched almonds and ground ginger, it shows good linear power, yet is harmonious and accessible, unfolding on the palate through the creamy finish." Wine Spectator

Tefra (Greek word for ash) is a 100% Nerello Mascalese and comes from a parcel in the Contrada Rampante on the northern slopes of Etna between the municipalities of Randazzo and Castiglione di Sicilia. Bright pink colour. Delicate and very clear nose of raspberries and wild strawberries, oranges and herbs. Fresh, juicy and vibrant in the mouth, very tasty racy acidity, finishes with good cool length. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2022 Rosato Etna Tefra is remarkably beautiful with its platinum pink colour. It offers a perfumed, floral bouquet. The palate is energetic, with tangy acidity and mineral tones, while crisp fruit flows through the nose. The finish is of medium length. A young strawberry and salty note slowly fade away." Vinous

"Notes of ripe nectarines and pink cherries with dried flowers and citrus peel leading to a medium body with juicy acidity. Crisp and easy to drink." James Suckling

"The pale pink of the glass belies the intense aromatics and rich mouthfeel of this rosé. Wild strawberries and peach candy on the nose give way to more berries and stone fruit on the palate, with a bit of blood orange and lime and a lick of quartz on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

It is very rare and highly commendable that a pure Nerello Cappuccio is bottled here, when the Nerello Mascalese is usually the red top dog on Etna. Bright garnet-red, youthfully fresh wine with a bouquet of strawberry and citrus fruit, plus stony-mineral tones, flowers and spices. Subtle elegance on the palate with a pleasant fresh breeze. SUPERIORE.DE

Fresh rosato with a flavour of dark berries and a hint of lavender. Clear fruit on the palate, with elegant suppleness, a fine mineral note and, last but not least, an appealing palatability. SUPERIORE.DE

"A lovely blend of wild strawberries, dusty rose and crushed stone wafts up from the 2023 Etna Rosato. Round and juicy in character, this presents ripe pit fruits, green melon and hints of candied citrus. The 2023 leaves the palate crisp and refreshed, finishing with medium length and a finger of minerality." Vinous

Etna Rosso comes from the Torreguarino and Pietramarina vineyards on Etna. Bright, sparkling ruby red colour with a transparent core. Fine spicy notes, pepper and small red berries on the nose, notes of ripe raspberries on the palate. Dense, with lots of fruit and compact tannins. Elegant, yet fresh and racy and very authentic. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light tannins are crisp and fine in this bright red that defines a pure note of crushed raspberry with a hint of pomegranate puree, supported by accents of blood orange peel, dried lavender and tarry smoke that ends in a creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"The sunny, floral nose shows aromas of roses, hibiscus, cherries and strawberries, along with balancing undertones of salt and stone. On the palate, a hint of orange peel underlines the cherry and strawberry flavours, while the tannins leave a powerful, invigorating impression." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2022 Etna Rosso lifts up with an airy array of rosy florals, lavender and exotic spice. It opens with a pretty inner sweetness and soft textures as wild strawberries and blueberries swirl throughout. This tapers off with a tinge of crunchy minerality and a violet resonance, revealing a tart blackberry tone toward the close." Vinous

Delicate, elegant Nerello Mascalese with fine aromas of red fruits and raspberries, enveloped in a pleasant citrus freshness. As the wine progresses, it develops a smoky note associated with the strong lava rock component that characterises the volcanic soil of Etna. Lively, harmonious and full of flavour on the palate, it is a resolutely versatile wine that goes perfectly with a wide range of fish dishes, shellfish and white meats. SUPERIORE.DE

Elegant, exotic-looking Etna Bianco with wonderfully broad flavours of tropical fruit, blossom and peach. Beautifully juicy, balanced and long in flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"A blend from 5 contrade. Extremely aromatic, expansive, sexy bouquet with white peach and spices. This successful cuvée captivates with its multi-layered hints of mountain and flower meadows, paired with light exotic fruits. Melting on the palate with white fruits, mineral notes and a salty finish." Weinwisser

"The 2022 Etna Bianco rises from the glass with a savoury blend of dried flowers, stone dust and freshly cut nectarine. It shows ripe stone fruit and a feeling of liquid stone accompanied by fresh acidity. The 2022 finishes crisp and long, with a tart concentration of citrus that tickles the cheeks and keeps the taster reaching for the glass." Vinous

"It has notes of lemon, camomile and sweet basil. It is bright and fruity, with a medium body and a fresh, creamy finish." James Suckling

"A blend of Carricante from various Contradas in Castiglione di Sicilia on the north side of Mount Etna. This undried Bianco is bright and cheerful, full of white peach, white flowers, apricot skin, cream, pink grapefruit and hay. Its long, floral finish is delightful, juicy and stony." Decanter

Donnafugata's impressive declaration of love to Etna, currently the hottest wine hotspot, began with the Sul Vulcano line. Light ruby red in colour, with a bouquet of wild strawberry and delicate hints of black cherry, cinnamon and nutmeg. The corresponding, fresh flavour and subtle elegance lead to a harmonious and energetic finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Open-hearted bouquet with delicate oxidation, lilac, juniper and tobacco. Earthy and mineral on the palate with fine tannins and spicy notes." Weinwisser

"Hints of sweet spice and dusty rose give way to crushed cherries and cloves as the 2021 Etna Rosso Sul Vulcano blossoms in the glass. On the palate, it displays a texture of pure silk with ripe red fruits accompanied by lively acidity, while floral notes unfold on the inside. Fine tannins and a primary concentration saturate towards the end, while the 2021 finishes long. Traces of liquorice fade towards the end. This is a fantastic offering, especially at this price point." Vinous

Rovittello, like Passiposciaro and Pietramarina, lies on the north and northeast sides of the Etna volcano. In 1911, another eruption took place, which resulted in, among other things, the area from which Fessina's red of the same name comes being flooded by lava rock, thus creating the basalt- and sand-rich terroir on which bush vines up to 100 years old grow today. The microclimate of this particular site, in the shape of an amphitheatre, ensures that the Nerello grapes ripen slowly and completely, giving the wines a unique identity, elegance and depth.

Bright, luminous ruby red. Animating bouquet of violet blossoms, pink pepper and small red forest berries. On the palate, spicy and velvety, the harmony between acidity and fruit extract combined with round, elegant tannins create a wine of aristocratic grace and finesse that will increase in depth and complexity in the coming years. Just 3,000 bottles of it will reach selected specialist retailers and top restaurants. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant cherry red with a hint of ruby. Finely marked nose of redcurrant, raspberry jelly, some cardamom and dark chocolate. Stretches out an elegantly polished dress, showing lively drink, finely woven tannin, with precision and pull, finishing on lush cherries with subtle salinity, pure drinkability." Falstaff

Delicate light pink. Fine berry scent with hints of gravel and tuff. Delicate floral aroma, light plum and pink grapefruit. In the fresh finish some flint and mineral notes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Radiant salmon pink. Slightly reductive on the nose at first, then nuances of sweet cherry and white peach. On the palate full-bodied, with a slight tannic rip, fresh and juicy, fun." Falstaff

"Attractive rosé with pink nectarines, dried flowers and crushed stones on the nose. Medium-bodied, dry and crisp with chalky texture and tangy zestiness at the end. Fresh and crunchy." James Suckling

The eruption of 1614 is legendary in the history of Etna, as it lasted ten years, making it the longest recorded eruption of the active volcano to date. A very impressive and fitting name for Planeta's Etna series of equally impressive wines.

Carricante from Planeta's Etna vineyard is an exceptional wine full of freshness, energy and minerality. This noble grape variety thrives in exclusive conditions, on volcanic soils and at altitudes of 870 metres. A wonderfully complex pleasure that is only ever released for sale two years after the harvest. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Carricante Eruzione 1614 lifts from the glass with a burst of crushed stones, sage and dried apricots. This reverberates with zesty tension as crisp orchard fruits cascade throughout, further enhanced by a tinge of sour citrus. It finishes long and staining yet wickedly fresh, leaving behind a saline sensation that keeps the mouth watering for more." Vinous

Donnafugata's impressive declaration of love to Etna, currently the hottest wine hotspot, began with the Sul Vulcano line. Carricante is one of the most exciting grape varieties in southern Italy, capable of complexity and terroir-driven expression in the right soils. The vines for Donnafugata's only white wine from Etna grow on volcanic soils rich in minerals at an altitude of 700-750 metres. The wine is fermented in steel tanks before maturing partly in concrete tanks and partly in second and third choice barriques for 10 months and then a further nine months in the bottle.

Straw yellow with golden reflections. Bouquet of white flowers and notes of wild herbs and citrus. On the palate, it is full, fresh and flavoursome and finishes with impressive freshness, elegance and an exciting mineral vein. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose reveals chiselled notes of pink grapefruit, herbs and citrus blossom. In the mouth, it is tightly woven, with a very fine woody touch, melting contours, mineral and salty." Weinwisser

"Straw yellow in colour. Attractive nose of fresh lemon peel, but still somewhat restrained. Mineral lemon fruit with salty hints on the finish. Can mature." Jancis Robinson

"A well-dried white wine with lush vanilla, baking spice and lime blossom accents to the flavours of glazed apple and tangerine fruit. The mouthwatering acidity is well integrated, providing definition and carrying the rich flavours through the lingering, slightly salty finish." Wine Spectator

"The Etna Bianco Sul Vulcano 2021 is intense, with a blend of flint, sweet mint, apricot and a hint of sage. It is soft and round, with a lively acidity and mineral fruit that pours over the palate and takes on a hint of sour citrus towards the end. The Sul Vulcano is a fantastic option for an entry-level Etna Bianco, and having tasted the 2016 in parallel, I can confirm that it will age beautifully." Vinous

"Juicy fruit character, delicate white flowers, ripe melon and pineapple, elegant and mineral with generous fruit." Decanter

The eruption of 1614 is legendary in the history of Etna, as it lasted ten years, making it the longest recorded eruption of the active volcano to date. A very impressive and fitting name for Planeta's Etna series of equally impressive wines.

It could hardly be more autochthonous: this excellent wine from the Nerello Mascalese grape comes from the hotspot on the east coast of Sicily, from the slopes of Mount Etna. Bright cherry red in colour, a fine aroma of raspberry and blood orange, gripping, taut acidity, silky tannins and a lively elegance with beautiful minerality. Great, long and unique! SUPERIORE.DE

"Impressive aromas of mulberries and flowers; juicy on the palate, beautifully polished, balanced and elegant through to the final, red berry flavours, soft, honey notes and yet the acidity is in balance. A lovely accompaniment to food." Vinum

"Burgundy-inspired bouquet with red berries, light strawberries, red cherries and balsamic notes, sage. Well-structured on the palate with gripping red berry fruit, sandy tannins and a savoury, peppery acidity structure that lingers into the final." Weinwisser

"It shows aromas of ripe cherries and grilled plums, with fragrant flavours of cigar box spices, broom and wild rosemary that linger on the fine, taut finish." Wine Spectator

"Cherries and cranberries with some candied watermelon both on the nose and on the palate. Medium body, creamy tannins and a tangy finish. Juicy." James Suckling

"The 2020 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese Eruzione 1614 opens in a medium dark ruby red colour with lively primary fruit. Wild berries and cassis are underpinned by gently rendered oak tones of cinnamon and campfire ash. Although technically outside the DOC area (just a few metres), this is one of the finest sites on Etna. The tannins are firm but silky, which means you can drink this bottle straight away without ageing." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 is decidedly savoury, exuding hints of grilled rosemary and sage, ashen stones and crushed blackberries. On the palate, it is characterised by juicy forest fruits, underscored by a hint of blood orange and zesty acidity. It tapers off long and gently tannic, closing on a pleasantly bitter note as the minty herbal tones fade. Wow." Vinous

"The nose begins spicy and herbaceous with notes of stone, salt, pepper, oregano and fennel before lighter flavours of cherry blossom, hibiscus and strawberry emerge. On the palate, the cherry and strawberry flavours sparkle, while a lingering, salty stoniness balances a silky smooth texture with an intense, salty freshness." Wine Enthusiast

Ghiaia, a pure Nerello Mascalese from the slopes of Mount Etna, exudes sweet aromas of cherries and flowers. A refined, very detailed and seductive wine with great charm, character and personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium-light red colour; reductive red-fruity, appealing; powerful, deep fruit, subtly tart tannin, long." Merum

"Attractive bouquet of chestnuts, violets and crisp strawberries, fresh and crisp with attractive acidity and a savoury finish." Decanter

"Sweet berries and orange peel with undertones of peach and lemon blossom. Medium-bodied, with crisp fruit and a fresh and slightly chewy finish. Delicious wine, now showing volcanic character with ashy and smoky undertones." James Suckling

"The 2021 Etna Rosso Ghiaia Nera is intense, smoky and ashy, opening with a burst of crushed strawberries complicated by hints of blood orange and clove. This is a model of purity, with zesty red berry fruits and a core of salty minerality that comes forward toward the close. Brisk acidity maintains fantastic balance. A web of fine tannins lingers long, creating a classically dry sensation and youthful tension as sour cherry tones taper." Vinous

Delicate old pink with shimmering reflections, elegant bouquet with notes of wild strawberries and light currants, plus restrained, spicy tones. On the palate with creamy freshness and lively acidity, fine and distinguished. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of grapefruit peel and raspberries. Medium body. Balanced acidity. Vivid citrus aftertaste with a slightly smoky edge to it." James Suckling

"A blend of young peach and nectarine is complemented by hints of crushed rock and dried flowers as the 2022 Rosato Etna blossoms in the glass. It has a soft texture and a mineral style. It quickly gains traction with a stimulating blend of lively acidity and a lemon astringency. The 2022 lasts a long time, with a saline concentration and mandarin notes that keep the taster coming back to the glass. The 2022 is another fantastic Rosato Etna from Graci." Vinous

Etna Rosato from Pietradolce not only attracts attention with its delicate, shiny colour. The delicate bouquet of roses is beguiling and the precise flavour convinces with lively aromas of peach, cranberry and grapefruit. Elegant mineral tones accompany the fresh finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling copper red colour. Distinctive bouquet of candied apricots, orange peel with light herbal spice. Smooth on entry, unbelievably soft and elegant on the palate, with a long finish." Falstaff

"The 2023 Etna Rosato is delicate, with a nuanced blend of white strawberries, wet stone and hints of peach sorbet. It balances a zesty core of juicy acidity and sour lime with ripe orchard fruits. This finishes remarkably fresh and clean, with a mineral tinge that keeps the mouth watering for more." Vinous

Benantis Etna Bianco from 100% Carricante is a delicately perfumed expression of Carricante with gentle mineral notes, white flowers and light flavours of peach or nectarine. The true protagonist, however, are the carefully dosed volcanic tones of ash and smoke. The bouquet will become even more refined with a year or more of ageing in the bottle. Fresh and round on the palate, great acidity and a saline vein, with a subtle sweetness on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A very fresh wine with a mineral flavour and fine citrus notes, orange blossom and citrus zest. Wonderfully linear on the palate, yet also endowed with a fine mellowness." Weinwisser

"A fresh, salty white wine, creamy on the palate, with accents of white flowers, lemon thyme and beeswax to the flavours of poached pear, crushed almond and Meyer lemon zest." Wine Spectator

"The nose is smoky and savoury, like lemon drizzled over grilled chicken, with bright herbal notes of saffron and tarragon adding vibrancy. A salty citrus note defines the palate, while a lingering herbal note provides warmth without sacrificing freshness." Wine Enthusiast