Terre Nere : San Lorenzo 2023

The power and refinement of an Etna Rosso

The estate

Founded in 2002 by Marco De Grazia, Tenuta delle Terre Nere has become one of Sicily’s most celebrated estates. Nestled on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, the vineyards are rooted in rich volcanic soils, at elevations between 600 and 1,000 metres. Organically cultivated since its inception (certified in 2010), the domaine produces wines of great purity, precision, and expression — wines that embody the authenticity of Sicily’s volcanic terroir.

The vineyard

The San Lorenzo contrada is located near Randazzo, one of the northernmost sectors of Etna. The vineyard lies at approximately 750 metres above sea level on deep, sandy volcanic soils of ancient lava flows. Many of the vines are between 50 and 100 years old, with some rare pre-phylloxera survivors. The altitude, combined with dramatic day–night temperature shifts, lends the fruit its distinctive freshness and aromatic intensity.

Winemaking and aging

Fermentation takes place in the estate’s semi-buried cellar, using only wild native yeasts to preserve terroir character. Vinification occurs in stainless steel and large oak tuns, followed by 16–18 months of aging in oak barrels, of which only 10–15% are new. This gentle élevage enhances complexity while respecting the finesse of Nerello Mascalese.

Blend

The San Lorenzo 2023 is crafted almost entirely from Nerello Mascalese, with a small proportion of Nerello Cappuccio — the classic blend of Etna Rosso DOC.

Tasting

San Lorenzo 2023 presents a brilliant ruby-red colour with garnet reflections. The bouquet is immediately captivating, with aromas of wild cherry, redcurrant, and pomegranate, interwoven with notes of rose petals, Mediterranean herbs, and smoky volcanic minerality. On the palate, the wine is both silky and powerful, marked by fine-grained tannins and a vibrant backbone of acidity. Layers of ripe red fruit, spice, and subtle balsamic undertones unfold with remarkable precision. The finish is long, elegant, and mineral-driven, reflecting the singular volcanic terroir of Etna.

This is a wine of intensity and finesse, already approachable in its youth but with the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 15–20 years.

Score

The illustrious wine critic James Suckling has named the San Lorenzo 2023 as his Italian Wine of the Year for 2025 — a testament to the grandeur and timeless appeal of this Etna Rosso.