
Tenuta delle Terre Nere Etna Bianco 2022
Tenuta delle Terre Nere
Marc de Grazia's Terre Nere has become the reference point for Etna wines, and this entry-level bianco demonstrates why. The Carricante grape grown on Etna's volcanic soils at altitude produces a white wine with an unmistakable smoky mineral signature you won't find anywhere else on earth. For under thirty dollars, this is a masterclass in terroir-driven winemaking.
Nose
Citrus blossom and green apple open the nose with clarity, joined by a distinctive flinty, smoky minerality that speaks directly to the volcanic soils. A delicate honeyed note and white flowers weave through the background.
Palate
Taut and focused, with bright citrus and green apple acidity framing a saline, mineral-driven core. The volcanic smoke character manifests as an almost ashy texture on the mid-palate — not heavy, but persistently present. Hints of toasted almond emerge with air.
Finish
Long and precise, with lingering citrus, stony minerality, and a clean, slightly smoky close.
- Varietal
- Carricante
- Blend
- Predominantly Carricante with minor Catarratto
- Vineyards
- Multiple contrada plots on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, volcanic soils, 600-1000m elevation
- Alcohol
- 12.5%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
- Skin Contact
- No
Food Pairing
Grilled swordfish with a caper and lemon butter sauce
Produced by Marc de Grazia on the northern slopes of Mount Etna from Carricante vines grown in volcanic ash and lava-rich soils at elevations between 600 and 1,000 meters above sea level.
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