Etna Red Contrada Rampante 2017 Etna DOC Tenuta Tascante Tasca d'Almerita MAGNUM wooden box

Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante 2017: volcanic elegance in Magnum format

Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante 2017 by Tasca d'Almerita is a Sicilian red wine with a strong personality, an authentic expression of the northern slope of Etna. Made from Nerello Mascalese in Etna DOC, it combines territorial identity, stylistic finesse, and a pleasant pairing ability. The Magnum format and wooden case make it particularly suitable for an important purchase, both for a private cellar and for a special occasion.

Territory and style of the wine

The Rampante contrada is located between Solicchiata and Passopisciaro, at about 740 meters above sea level, on terraced vineyards with gentle slopes and volcanic soils. This combination of altitude, temperature variations, and mineral terrain helps define a tense, elegant, and territorial style. The 2017 harvest, carried out at the end of October, reflects a vintage that allowed for slow and progressive maturation. After traditional red fermentation and complete malolactic fermentation, the wine ages for 12 months in 25 hl Slavonian oak barrels, gaining balance and complexity without losing its Etna imprint.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it presents a profile consistent with mountain Nerello Mascalese: bright ruby red color, often crossed by garnet hues with evolution. On the nose, it offers fine and layered sensations, with hints of ripe red fruits, delicate spices, and mineral notes that evoke the volcanic character of the territory. On the palate, it is dry, smooth yet well-defined, with vibrant freshness, present but elegant tannins, and a structure that supports the sip without weighing it down. The finish is savory, harmonious, and persistent, with a refined and gastronomic imprint.

Recommended pairings

Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante 2017 pairs naturally with earthy dishes and flavorful preparations of Mediterranean cuisine. It is ideal with roasted meats, oven-baked lamb, light game, mushrooms, not overly rich braises, and aged cheeses. Excellent also with structured first courses, such as pasta with ragù, timbales, or mushroom risottos, thanks to its freshness and tannin that cleanses the palate. Its versatility makes it suitable for a more refined table, where a characterful yet not overly heavy red is sought.

Serving temperature

Serve Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante 2017 at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Particularly in the Magnum format, it can benefit from a few minutes of oxygenation before serving, in order to best express the bouquet and the balance of the sip. A long decanting is not necessary, unless for personal preferences or opening at a still young stage of the wine.

Why buy it

This wine represents a valuable choice for those seeking an Etna Rosso capable of telling the territory with precision, elegance, and authenticity. The signature of Tasca d'Almerita, the origin from a single contrada, and the Magnum format enhance its charm and ability to evolve over time. It is an interesting purchase for collectors, enthusiasts of Etna wines, and for those who wish to bring a refined, versatile, and recognizable Sicilian red to the table.