Etna Rosso: The magic of mount etna

Wine lovers gathered for an unforgettable evening at the Toronto Vintners Club’s latest tasting event, where the spotlight was on Etna Rosso, the captivating red wine from Sicily’s volcanic slopes.

The event welcomed members and guests with a refreshing glass of Tornatore Etna Bianco, a crisp and vibrant white wine offering bright citrus, green apple, and floral aromas, followed by a mineral-driven finish. This delightful introduction set the stage for the evening’s deep dive into the magic of Etna’s terroir.

Our guest speaker, Jay Whiteley, sommelier, wine writer and educator, provided insightful commentary on the uniqueness of Etna Rosso, emphasizing the distinct characteristics of its star grape, Nerello Mascalese. He discussed the influence of Etna’s volcanic soils, high altitudes, and dramatic diurnal temperature shifts, which contribute to the wine’s remarkable structure, elegance, and aging potential. Members and guests learned how to distinguish various styles of Etna Rosso, from fruit-forward and youthful expressions to more structured, aged examples with earthy and smoky undertones.

The event featured eight exquisite Etna Rosso wines, each showcasing a unique expression of the region’s volcanic influence. Among the highlights was the 2017 Pietrarizzo, Tornatore, known for its botanical character with hints of mint, eucalypt, and resinous herbs. The 2018 Rampante, Pietradolce, dazzled with its bright cranberry notes, fresh mushrooms, and smoky undertones, while the 2018 Fragore Contrada Montelaguardia, Donnafugata, impressed with aromas of camphor, licorice, and roasted coffee bean. Each wine revealed a different side of Etna’s diverse terroir, allowing guests to explore the range of flavours and textures that make these wines so compelling. The wines were expertly paired with a selection of appetizers designed to complement their vibrant acidity and complex flavours.

As the evening progressed, attendees ranked their wines from least to most favourite, leading to the much-anticipated moment when the scores were tallied. The standout wine of the night was the 2015 Prephylloxera Vico Etna Rosso. This remarkable wine, crafted from century-old pre-phylloxera vines, captivated guests with its ethereal beauty, delicate red fruit, and seamlessly integrated tannins. Its exceptional balance and finesse made it the clear favourite among the group, reinforcing the allure of wines produced from some of the oldest vines on Mount Etna.

The event was a celebration of Etna Rosso’s elegance, history, and terroir, leaving members and guests with a newfound appreciation for this rising star in the wine world. Whether you’re a fan of Pinot Noir or Barolo, Etna Rosso’s refined yet powerful character is a must-try, offering a distinctive drinking experience that is both sophisticated and accessible.

Stay tuned for more exciting tastings from the Toronto Vintners Club, and join us on our next journey into the world of fine wines!