The 2020 Etna Rosso Aetneus smolders up with a darkly floral mix of mentholated black cherries, dried violets and ashen stones. Silken textures, cooling acidity and ripe wild berry fruits wash across the palate. A saturation of minerals and fine tannins amass toward the close. Built for the cellar, this finishes long and structured with a resonance of sour citrus and lavender pastille. The 2020 is a gorgeous rendition of I Custodi's Aetneus.
95 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (May 2025)
The I Custodi 2020 Etna Rosso Contrada Muganazzi Aetneus is Nerello Mascalese with 20% Nerello Cappuccio that is fermented in stainless steel and aged in tonneaux for 18 months. Nerello Cappuccio adds a spicy character to this wine with hints of black pepper and nutmeg, but when you dig down to the core of this medium-bodied red, you get a pretty blast of primary freshness with wild cherry and blackcurrant. These vineyards are located at 680 meters above sea level with especially rocky volcanic soils. This is a production of 8,400 bottles.
93 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Apr 2025)
Medium red in color, the 2020 Etna Rosso Aetneus is a more serious expression and has a more autumnal feel, with notes of fresh leather, ripe sunbaked cherries, delicate rustic hints, fresh wild herbs, and dried earth. It has layered richness and a broader frame, with ripe tannins and a more grounding feel, although it also has freshness of acidity. Drink 2025-2040.
93 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (Oct 2025)
A complex wine with a layered nose showing restrained black pepper, leather, game and dark fruits merged with smokiness. On the palate, it’s firm on the attack, large-grained tannins turning supple in the finish. Medium- to full-bodied and not dry, it has crisp acidity and good length. Drink or hold.
93 points, James Suckling (Jul 2024)
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