Etna Rosso 'Prephylloxera'

Score

97

Score

97

"From two parcels of pre-phylloxera vines (over 140 years old) within the estate's rocky four-hectare vineyard in Calderara Sottana, this wine was first bottled in the 2006 vintage after Marco De Grazia decided to vinify these ancient, ungrafted vines separately. Dusty and spicy with just a hint of orange peel overlaying some deep, dark berry scents, in the mouth it has a beautiful expression of sweet, concentrated balsam-laced red and black fruits showing levity and balance on a soft palate. There's floral depth to find here, given focus by the bright acidity, while the fine tannins cradle the succulent, joyous fruit. Persistent and vibrant."

Score

98

Score

95

Score

98

"A fascinating wine showing flower stems, orange peel and bark with some dried mushrooms. The structure and length are exceptional with a medium to full body and tight, focused tannins. Ends with a persistent, polished and refined finish. Caresses in every sense. Better in five years but if you get the chance to drink now, go for it!"

Score

96

"Made with extremely old, ungrafted vines, the radiant 2022 Le Vigne di Don Peppino Calderara Sottana Prephylloxera is a captivating wine, starting with its compelling aromas of Mediterranean scrub, juniper, dark, exotic spice, eucalyptus and lavendar. Full-bodied and boasting a weightless elegance, the palate delivers ripe raspberry, cassis, crushed mint and French oak-driven sensations of cocoa, coconut and vanilla alongside velvety tannins. Bright acidity and mineral notes give it great energy and tension. Drink 2027–2037. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O'Keefe July 2024"

Score

96

"Darkly alluring and youthfully backward, the 2022 Etna Rosso Prephylloxera La Vigna di Don Peppino Calderara Sottana smolders up with a blend of sweet spices, dusty violets and ash, giving way to dried black cherries, sage and cloves. This is velvety yet finessed, with a polished wave of ripe red and blue fruit that flows across a juicy stream of acidity. Hints of sour citrus add contrast toward the close. It finishes remarkably fresh and energetic, still tannic but lively, as crunchy tannins resonate and an air of lavender slowly fades. This is an elegant and genuinely harmonious edition of this cuvée. Simply stunning."

Score

95

"Woodsy spice, tar-tinged smoke and medicinal herb notes are an aromatic entry point for this firm, savory red, joining focused flavors of dehydrated black raspberry and macerated mulberry fruit, rose hip and singed orange peel. The dense tannins bring a textured, raw silk-like feel, with a chewy impression on the fragrant finish. Decant and then sip slowly as this reveals its layered facets. Best from 2027 through 2042. —A.N."