"Druerne hentes fra 0,8 ha contrada Calderara Sottana med planter, der står på egne rodstokke i den vulkanske sten- og askeholdige jord, og de er sat før 1881 og overlevede vinlusens hærgen på Etna. Underteksten La Vigna di Don Peppino refererer til den bonde, der i over 70 år passede og plejede disse unikke planter. Angivelsen Grande terroir ellittico henviser til, at jorden er den mest sjældne og den ældste af de dyrkbare på Etna, som kan føres tilbage til den såkaldte elliptiske vulkan for 15.000-66.000 år siden. Denne majestætiske vin repræsenterer det vel nok ypperste udtryk for vulkansk individueret Nerello Mascalese hos Terre Nere" Adriat
"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." Wine Spectator 95p
"The Etna Rosso Prephylloxera La Vigna di Don pepCalderara Sottana 2022 is seductive and youthfully backward. It exudes a blend of sweet spices, dusty violets and ash that fades into dried black cherries, sage and cloves. This wine is velvety yet refined, with a polished wave of ripe red and blue fruit flowing over a juicy stream of acidity. A hint of sour citrus contrasts towards the end. The finish is remarkably fresh and energetic, still tannic but lively as crisp tannins linger and a hint of lavender slowly fades. This is an elegant and truly harmonious edition of this cuvée. Simply stunning." Vinous 96p
"A fascinating wine with flavours of flower stems, orange peel and bark as well as some dried mushrooms. The structure and length are exceptional with a medium to full body and firm, concentrated tannins. The finish is persistent, polished and refined. It is flattering in every way. Better in five years, but if you have the opportunity to drink it now, go for it!" James Suckling 98p
