Blog: Vulcanic Wines
Wine Classic

Italy is a country with a rich history and culture, which is also expressed in its wines. One of the most fascinating features of Italian wines is the influence of the soil on their characteristics. Wines that grow on volcanic soils, also called Vulcanic Wines, are particularly interesting. In this blog article we will focus on three such wines: those from Etna, Taurasi and Soave.

Wines from Etna
Wines from Etna are made from the Nerello Mascalese grape variety and are known for their elegance, complexity and minerality. Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and the soil where the vines grow is rich in minerals and nutrients. The wines have a bright red color and are known for their fruity aromas of cherries and berries, as well as spicy notes of black pepper and cloves. In the mouth they are dry and full-bodied, with lively acidity and smooth tannins. The volcanic soils give the wines a particular minerality and freshness that distinguishes them from other Italian wines.

Taurasi wines
Taurasi is a DOCG region in Campania, known for its red wines made from the Aglianico grape variety. The wines have a deep ruby color and are known for their aromas of red and black berries, leather and spices. In the mouth, they are dry and tannic, with a powerful body and longevity. The volcanic soils in the region give the wines a particular minerality and complexity that makes it one of the best red wine regions in Italy.

Soave wines
Soave is a DOC region in Veneto, known for its white wines made from the Garganega grape variety. The wines have a straw yellow color and are known for their aromas of citrus, pears and flowers. In the mouth they are dry, fresh and fruity, with a lively acidity. The volcanic soils in the region give the wines a particular minerality and freshness that distinguishes them from other Italian white wines.

In summary, volcanic soils have a unique influence on the characteristics of Italian wines. The wines of Etna, Taurasi and Soave are just a few examples of wines that grow on such soils and have a special minerality and complexity. Italy's rich volcanic soils help make its wines some of the best and most diverse in the world. - Gerardo [TS03/23]