Tenuta Tascante
The Counts of Tasca d’Almerita make the most of Sicily’s rugged terroir.
On the north-eastern slope of Europe’s largest volcano, the Sicilian flagship winery Tasca cultivates 25 hectares of vines. An impressive sight, especially at times when Mount Etna erupts in a cloud of ash ... There is a very special terroir there. The vines are rooted in soils of ash and lava on 99 separate terraces, divided by old, lovingly maintained dry stone walls – an almost forgotten craft.
From an altitude of 750 metres above sea level they look out over the mild Mediterranean Sea, but at night the cool mountain air covers the vineyards like a blanket and ensures that the grapes ripen slowly and evenly. It is of course a matter of honour that old, indigenous varieties are grown here. Varietal treasures such as Nerello Mascalese and Carricante produce deep wines with plenty of tannins and an astonishing freshness. A real discovery!
Familie Tasca d’Almerita
Alberto, Lucio and Giuseppe Tasca d’Almerita (left to right)
