2012 Tascante Ghiaia Nera
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese Ghiaia Nera offers a pretty interpretation of Etna with sharp lines, pristine focus and linear graphite notes. The wine's volcanic personality is put proudly on display thanks to the clean mineral tones and the wild berry aromas. In addition, this Tascante wine offers layers of blue flower, licorice and grilled herb. The finish shows moderate length, but it is tonic and bright with a pungent touch of acidity to keep the palate alive.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Attractive, minty red fruit. Polished fruit palate with a tannic grip on the finish. Plain delicious. (WS)
The 2012 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese Ghiaia Nera shows some of the warmth of the vintage and demonstrates why this was such an interesting year for red wines made on Etna. Ghiaia Nera boasts a bright ruby color with inner rays of raspberry and garnet. On the nose, it shows subdued intensity with delicate tones of cassis, dried cherry, balsam herb, cola and dusty mineral. The wine is not too "volcanic" in character. It does not show those overt sulfur flavors that can sometimes overwhelm the fruit. This points to careful farming and winemaking. If you are looking for an Etna value option, this wine is an excellent buy.