"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 Tenuta delle Terre Nere 2024 Etna Rosso San Lorenzo is part of the “Grande Terroir Ellittico” series. San Lorenzo, at approximately 750 meters in elevation, is harvested before the higher Guardiola vineyard. Although the two sites share Ellittico origins, they behave very differently: Guardiola reaches 850 to 900 meters and has poorer soils, while San Lorenzo’s deeper, more generous soils produce greater ripeness and opulence. The 2024 San Lorenzo is softer, fuller and more voluptuous, with a level of richness not found in the Guardiola from the same vintage. Guardiola remains more defined by texture and restraint, whereas San Lorenzo embraces ripe fruit and generosity.
97 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Sep 2026)
The 2024 Etna Rosso San Lorenzo is darkly floral, with notes of ash, crushed rocks, tangerine zest and sage. It's impressively fresh despite its silky weight and incredible depth of red berry fruit. A liquid violet concentration slowly saturates toward the close. The 2024 reveals a collage of autumnal spices under an air of lavender pastille as hints of subtle citrus neatly balance its firming tannins. This is absolutely stunning.
96+ points, Eric Guido, Vinous (Sep 2026)
Aromas of dried strawberries, hot stones and some smoke come through clearly. Full-bodied with juicy, velvety tannins and a savory finish. Shows a lot of structure and chewiness, yet fruity and delicious already. Best after 2028.
96 points, James Suckling (Jun 2026)
A subtle, earthy, spicy nose offers up aromas of tilled soil, cinnamon, pepper and black cherry. The palate presents fresh Mission figs drizzled with pomegranate syrup and a squeeze of bitter citrus, while the spices and earth linger as undertones, bringing a sense of cohesion. Sleek tannins balance assertive acid.
95 points, Danielle Callegari, Wine Enthusiast (Oct 2026)
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