"Tenuta delle Terre Nere remains both a benchmark on [Etna] and an important force shaping its next generation." - Eric Guido, Vinous
Etna is arguably Italy's most dynamic wine region at present, and leading the way is a familiar name to Italian aficionados, Tenuta della Terre Nere. Winemaker Marco de Grazia has been a force in the region's rise to prominence, and his 2024s continue a remarkable run of excellence for this iconic estate, with a raft of massive recent accolades from several prominent critics.
The inimitable single-vineyard bottlings are collectible gems in every way (more on those below), but the entry-level, triple 94-point 2024 Etna Rosso shows every bit of de Grazia's top-tier talent that the flagship bottlings do. Sourced from younger vines across the estate's prized vineyards on the north side of the volcano, the 2024 is "soothingly round, cool-toned and silky in texture with polished red fruits swirling throughout" according to Eric Guido. "The wine is full of fruit, and its lush, ripe quality is beautiful," write Monica Larner. The 93-point 2025 Etna Bianco is likewise a proven winner, "perky, saline and smooth, with enough body to give it presence without getting in the way."
The 2024 single-vineyard reds, however, represent a remarkable benchmark for the estate with stratospheric scores from Suckling, Larner, and Guido. We went in on the entire range - they are that impressive across the board, led by a pair of all-time collectible greats in the triple 98-point 2024 Dagala di Bocca d'Orzo Etna Rosso and the 99-point 2024 Prephylloxera La Vigna di Don Peppino Calderara Sottana. Keen-eyed Sicily fans won't want to miss the "absolutely stunning" 97-point 2024 San Lorenzo Etna Rosso or the "fabulous length and structure" of the double 97-point 2024 Caldera Sottana Etna Rosso. Of course, these are just the highlights in another showstopping range of wines that doesn't miss a single mark across the board. If you're a Terre Nere fan (and we know there are countless of you out there), this is a line-up that you will want featured prominently in your cellar.
The 2024 is gorgeous, initially showing richness, sensuality and softer, fuller tannins. The fruit folds over the structure, making the wine feel complete. However, when I returned to it at the end of the tasting, its relative leanness became clearer. It does not have the same richness or weight as the wines poured later in the portfolio. Guardiola remains the “leanest and meanest” of the group, shaped by its cool climate, high elevation and exposed terraces.
97+ points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Sep 2026)
Aromas of dried strawberries, plums and peppermint follow through to a medium body with ripe strawberry and cherry flavors alongside hints of cedar and coffee. Some lead pencil too. Juicy tannins and a savory aftertaste. Drink or hold.
96 points, James Suckling (Jun 2026)
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