Barone di Villagrande Etna Rosso DOC 2018

For those yet to cross paths with Sicily’s noted red variety, nerello mascalese, this offers an excellent introduction. Nerello mascalese, blended here with two siblings, nerello cappuccio and nerello mantellato, is most often compared to pinot noir, with good reason. Expect a wine of elegance, graced by Mt. Etna’s super-fine mineral tannins. The bouquet displays a depth of red cherry, cranberry and pomegranate fruits, black tea and dried herbs. It’s bright, fresh and vibrant. The palate tells a slightly different story framed in taut tannin and still unable to fully relax when just opened. The emerging anise, bitter chocolate, plum and earth opened up after time in the glass and a decanter. By the second day, it was singing. Finishes with a slightly sappy, herbal astringency. Like all Italian wines it’s made to accompany food. Maybe a plate of Sicilian meatballs?