Mount Etna, Italy’s active volcano, provides the dramatic backdrop for Tenuta Tascante’s steeply terraced vines. Rich volcanic soil and warm, sun-filled summers combine with the high elevation to create the ideal home for the Nerello Mascalese varietal. The reds from Etna are often compared stylistically to Pinot Noir, and this is certainly true here. The wine’s light body shows notes of cherry and cranberry. The palate offers warm spices and dark fruit that are incredibly fresh and bright, even though the wine sees 24 months in Slavonian oak. This is an ideal food wine, and I love it with tomato-based pastas, any preparation of salmon, or perhaps my favorite pairing, with a charcuterie plate featuring ripe cheeses and rich salumi. - Noelle Starr