Carranco Etna Rosso Contrada Carranco RV 2019

Packaged with the black label, the Carranco 2019 Etna Rosso Contrada Carranco RV is Nerello Mascalese with a small part Nerello Cappuccio that sees partial whole cluster fermentation. The wine is aged in French oak for 18 months. This expression shows classic lines and a slightly more structured feel to the palate, with dark fruit, white pepper and a dusting of exotic spice. Compared to the red label wine, the RV shows aromas linked to oak aging and winemaking. The other Etna Rosso is more fruity in comparison. This bottle is better suited for brief cellar aging.

Carranco is a partnership between Oscar Farinetti and Francesco Tornatore, managed by Oscar's son, Andrea, who also manages Barolo property, Borgogno. This is the estate's flagship wine, a Riserva in all but name, from a single vineyard in Contrada Carranco, Castiglione di Sicilia. The fruit – of which 50% is whole-bunch – vinifies in concrete tanks and the wine then matures in large oak barrels for 12 to 18 months. This 2019 is a fine red, combining concentration and ripeness with freshness. Menthol-infused hedgerow berry aromas with an earthy hint introduce an intense palate of red fruits and barrel spice, displaying chalky-textured tannins.