Gaja Idda Etna Rosso 2024

Originating from Italy in the Sicily region, specifically within the Etna Rosso DOC appellation in eastern Sicily, Gaja Idda Etna Rosso 2024 represents an elegant, mineral-driven, and distinctive expression of volcanic winemaking. Idda—meaning 'she' in the Sicilian dialect, referring to Mount Etna itself—is a joint venture established in 2016 between two legendary winemaking families: Angelo Gaja of Piedmont and Alberto Graci of Etna. The estate's vineyards are located on the southern slopes of Mount Etna in the villages of Biancavilla and Belpasso, situated at high elevations between 600 and 800 metres above sea level. The vines grow in complex volcanic soils composed of ancient lava flows, basalt gravel, and ash. Under the joint direction of the Gaja and Graci families, the winemaking philosophy incorporates gentle temperature-controlled fermentation in oak vats and concrete, followed by 12 to 15 months of maturation in large oak casks (botti) and concrete. The result is a luminous, perfumed red wine that combines Mount Etna's signature volcanic minerality with Gaja's trademark polish and structural elegance.

Wine Description

The wine presents a clear, luminous translucent ruby red colour with soft wild-rose highlights along the rim. An expressive, highly complex bouquet opens with noble aromas of wild red cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, and pomegranate, interwoven with sophisticated notes of Mediterranean scrub, dried thyme, blood orange peel, crushed volcanic rock, and subtle smoke. On the palate, it is medium bodied, silken, and energetic, delivering concentrated flavours of crisp red fruit, citrus zest, and saline mineral earth, all supported by a bright, mouthwatering spine of natural high-elevation acidity. Framed by fine-grained, chalky tannins and a seamless mid-palate structure, it concludes with a long, persistent finish marked by lingering red berries, savory herbs, and a clean basaltic mineral grip. Composed primarily of Nerello Mascalese with a small proportion of Nerello Cappuccio, this 2024 release offers an optimal drinking window of 2026–2036. Stylistically, it effortlessly marries volcanic tension, refined red fruit aromatics, and Burgundian-like elegance.