A night on the slopes of Mount Etna

There is something magical about Etna – including the extraordinary wines from its volcanic slopes. On Tuesday, Aug. 26, NAZKA invites you to discover why the world’s most respected wine critics, from Jancis Robinson to James Suckling, have fallen under the spell of Federico Graziani and I Custodi delle Vigne dell’Etna.

This is the land of Etna, where black volcanic soil stretches over steep terraces and vineyards are more than 1,000 meters above sea level. Native varieties such as Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Carricante produce wines with delicate floral aromas, lively acids, fine tannins and a distinctive mineral backbone formed by the lava-rich soils.

The artistry of Federico Graziani
When critics of the caliber of James Suckling give stellar reviews, you know you’re onto something very special. But perhaps no recommendation carries more weight than that of Jancis Robinson, a critic known for her exacting standards, who gave Federico’s 2016 Profumo di Vulcano a remarkable 18 points. Her tasting note: “Fantastic, complex nose of cherry, leather, tar, hints of orange skin, iron and black earth. True Etna nobility”. And yes, this wine will be in our lineup….

The Guardians: I Custodi delle Vigne dell’Etna
I Custodi belongs to I Vigneri, an ancient winemakers’ guild that Salvo Foti has revived to preserve old traditions. They work with gnarled old bush vines on historic stone terraces and use only organic methods to make wines that capture the essence of this volcanic terroir. No wonder Decanter gave 95 points to I Custodi’s 2015 Secualare Riserva.

Join us on Aug. 26 for a five-course dinner paired with these exceptional wines. Reservations are limited – reserve now to secure your spot via Nazka’s website.