The 2011 Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana is light in color but masculine in personality. It-s a tight, nervous wine that needs more time to evolve in the cellar. Pretty fruit tones of wild berry and cassis set the stage, leaving ample room for nuanced mineral expressions. The tannins are tight, but polished and should become finer with age. Drink 2017-2030.
Marco de Grazia-s influence on the wines of Etna looms as large as the massive volcano that dominates the landscape in this very special corner of Sicily. This bi-cultural Italian and American figure (with extensive influence in the wine world as an importer, producer and great connoisseur of Barolo and Barbaresco) has pretty much moved permanently to live on Etna. His daughter is enrolled in the local school and his winery is a happy meeting ground for many younger Etna winemakers who seek Marco-s advice and counsel. I have often observed how the newest generations of winemakers - the so-called -Etna Boys- - refer to Marco in paternal tones.
Importers: A Marc de Grazia Selection, with various American importers including, De Grazia Imports, www.marcdegrazia.com; Michael Skurnik Wine, www.skurnikwines.com; Classic Wine Imports, www.classicwineimports.com; Estate Wines, www.estatewinesltd.com