Calabretta Nerello Mascalese Vecchie Vigne 2016

The artist formerly known as Etna Rosso (Massi withdrew his wines from DOC classification in 2004 after a number of years falling foul of the designation’s parameters for reasons both stylistic and technical). The whiff of savory, almost animalistic rusticity still lies within yet it's nestled comfortably in a core of plusher yet meditative dark fruit. Black cherry, raspberry compote and violet aromas and flavors are complicated by hints of fresh ginger, white pepper, and camphor. The finish here is long and perfumed with a rippling sense of density and power tempered by suave, polished tannins. A nod to the old ways and old wines of Etna, this is the liquid equivalent of a faded black and white photo.