2013 Vigna Barbagalli

Here is one of my favorite Etna overachievers. The 2013 Etna Rosso Vigna Barbagalli was born in a more-challenging vintage here on the volcano, but it sails smoothly through any possible weakness. This is a magnificent expression from Southern Italy. The wine has the mild consistency and light garnet color of a Burgundian Pinot Noir. But the bouquet is anything but understated. It delivers powerful aromas of wild berry, balsam herb, licorice and those distinctive touches of volcano ash. In the mouth, the wine shows smooth and long silkiness. This is a magnificent red wine from Etna. Only 2,500 bottles were made.