"Nero Ossidiana" 2019

750ml

Overview

Tenuta di Castellaro "Nero Ossidiana" 2019 is a striking expression of the unique volcanic terroir of the Aeolian Islands, capturing the essence of the island’s rich history and natural beauty. Made from the indigenous Nerello Mascalese grape, this red wine offers a compelling balance of power and elegance, with a distinctive mineral edge due to the volcanic soils. With its deep color, complex aromas, and refined tannins, this wine reflects the winery’s dedication to producing wines that are both bold and nuanced, making it an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The wine undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh fruit character while enhancing complexity.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in a combination of stainless steel and large oak barrels. This aging process allows for a smooth integration of the fruit and tannins, while preserving the vibrant fruit profile and mineral characteristics.
• Bottling: Bottled with minimal intervention to ensure the wine remains true to its natural expression, retaining its purity and volcanic influence.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with violet reflections, indicative of its youth and potential for further development.
• Aroma: The nose is expressive and complex, with aromas of dark fruit such as blackberry, cherry, and plum. Subtle earthy notes of volcanic ash, graphite, and a hint of tobacco are also present, providing depth and intrigue.
• Palate: Full-bodied with a firm structure, the wine showcases flavors of ripe red and black fruits, complemented by the distinct minerality from the volcanic soils. Hints of herbs, spice, and a touch of vanilla from oak aging add layers of complexity. The tannins are refined, providing a smooth mouthfeel and a solid backbone.
• Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit flavors and a subtle smoky note that echoes the volcanic origin.

Food Pairing

"Tenuta di Castellaro 'Nero Ossidiana'" 2019 pairs excellently with hearty dishes, such as grilled meats, lamb, and game. It also complements rich pasta dishes, such as ragù or pasta with truffles, as well as aged cheeses like Pecorino and Gouda.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 16–18°C (61–64°F) to allow the wine’s flavors to fully unfold.
• Decanting: Decanting is recommended for at least an hour to allow the wine to open up and soften its tannins.

Aging Potential

The 2019 "Nero Ossidiana" has excellent aging potential, with the ability to evolve gracefully over the next 10–15 years. As it matures, the wine will develop more tertiary notes, including leather, dried fruit, and tobacco, while its tannins will soften and integrate more fully.