In the glass
Aroma: red cherry, rose, volcanic mineral, tobacco
Palate: tart cherry, iron, saline mineral, fine tannins
Ghiaia Nera (black gravel) is the benchmark cuvee of Tasca's Etna estate, taking its name from the black volcanic gravel of the Rampante contrada: mineral-driven, fragrant Nerello Mascalese from the north slope.
What it pairs with
-
Grilled pork tenderloin with herbs
The wine's herb freshness and mineral character pair naturally with herb-seasoned pork. -
Pasta al pomodoro with fresh basil
Cherry freshness and mineral acidity harmonise with fresh tomato pasta. -
Lamb arrosticini (Sicilian-style skewers)
Fresh mineral character and medium tannins complement the grilled lamb skewers.
History
Tasca d'Almerita established its Etna estate in the Rampante contrada around 2010 and introduced Ghiaia Nera from the 2012 vintage as the flagship expression. The name references the black volcanic gravel (ghiaia nera) that characterises the Rampante contrada soils.
- 2010 — Tasca d'Almerita acquires north-slope Etna vineyard in Rampante contrada
- 2012 — First Ghiaia Nera vintage
Facts
- Producer
- Tenuta Tascante (Tasca d'Almerita on Etna)
- Grapes
- Nerello Mascalese
- Classification
- Etna Rosso DOC
- Oak
- 14 months in large Slavonian oak botti
- ABV
- 13.5%
- Price
- €25-40 at retail
- Drinking window
- 4-15 from vintage
- First vintage
- 2012