“Contrada Rampante” Rosso Etna DOC 2020

Tasca d'Almerita | Cantina Tascante | Sicily
Conte Tasca d'Almerita Soc. Agr. a.r.l. | Via dei Fiori 13 | IT 90129 Palermo

19034220 · 0,75 l · 52,00 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

Tasca became involved with Mount Etna at an early stage, and the latest result of this long-standing experience is four new single-vineyard wines from the Tascante estate: Contrada Rampante, Pianodario, Sciaranuova and Sciaranuova Vigna Vecchia (V.V.). The wines are delicate and brooding, and despite their power, acidity and firm tannins, they are very elegant, full of finesse and light on the palate. Each of the four plots lends the wine a slightly different style and character – determined by the altitude, soil composition and morphology of the historic lava flows. High annual rainfall ensures the soil has ample water reserves, and the temperature fluctuations between day and night enhance the diversity of the grapes' aromas and, ultimately, their ageing potential.

The Contrada Rampante plot is situated at an average altitude of 740 metres above sea level, between Solicchiata and Passopisciaro. It comprises an area of just 4.6 hectares of vineyards. The soils are of volcanic origin and are up to 15,000 years old.

Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante is remarkably lovely, with aromas of dusty roses and cherries, accompanied by notes of ash-like stone. It soothes with its silky textures and ripe red berry fruit. The lively acidity lends it a lovely energy. Delicate tannins linger, emphasising its youthful structure, whilst it finishes powerfully yet fresh and wonderfully fragrant. SUPERIORE.DE

"Il Cavallino Rampante is always more expressive and more vertical than the wines from other Contrade. A masculine bouquet with iron-like notes and dark cherries, it reminds me of Pinot Noir from Aloxe-Corton. Dense yet incredibly juicy, very long-lasting and full of character." Weinwisser

"This 2020 is a wonderfully delicate rendition of north-slope Nerello Mascalese, from vines in Castiglione di Sicilia at 740 metres above sea level. It's succulent and creamy, bright and saline, with red berries and even a hint of red apple allied with zesty acids and good freshness. Lacking a bit of complexity at the moment, but should come alive with more time in the bottle." Decanter

"A rich and expressive red with a light and graceful structure. This vintage offers aromas of plump cherries, wild herbs and graphite, underscored by tarry mineral and iron notes. It is brought into sharp focus by a lively acidity characterised by lingonberries, leading to a taut, refined finish." Wine Spectator

"A delicate Etna Rosso with aromas and flavours of red cherries, orange peel and flowers. Light tannins and a crisp finish. Lively." James Suckling

"The Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante 2020 has a pale ruby-red colour and exudes a bouquet of dusty rose, incense, grated sage and crushed raspberries. It is round and supple, yet light on its feet, with crisp red berry fruit and sweet spices swirling around a core of brilliant acidity. A tart, crisp cranberry note lingers, whilst a hint of citrus heightens the tension against a delicate web of silky tannins. This is an unobtrusive and beautiful expression of the Rampante." Vinous

"The Tenuta Tascante 2020 Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante has a distinctive character that begins with wild cherry before receding to embrace notes of gravel and fragrant roses. This wine offers solid depth and good length, delivered with an added edge." Wine Advocate

"The nose is precise and fresh, with aromas of fennel, orange peel and sour cherries, whilst a subtle earthiness provides a soothing presence. The juicy, lively palate brings out the sweetness of the orange and cherry notes, whilst an initial burst of acidity gives way to soft tannins. A thoroughly enjoyable wine." Wine Enthusiast