The Wines of Southern Italy: “things have never been better”. By Ian D’Agata, International Wine Cellar

International Wine Cellar, March/April 2014_ In “The Wines of Southern Italy,” Ian D’Agata reviews wines from southern Italy, which he calls, “an increasingly interesting place for wine lovers to visit, virtually or in person,” and despite some considerations, “there’s lots to cheer in southern Italian wines today. Simply put, beginning with the 21st century, things have never been better.” Included in D’Agata’s reviews:

TENUTA DI FESSINA Erse Etna Rosso 2011 – 91 points “Bright medium red. Perfumed aromas of flinty raspberry, red plum, violet and licorice, plus a hint of smoke. Not especially fleshy but displays lovely inner-mouth perfume and energy, with captivatingly fresh red berry and cherry flavors. This very young, pure, unoaked wine relies more on its acidity than on its tannins for structure but has mesmerizing balance. Drink it slightly chilled; with its aromatic complexity, this will pair well with many spicy dishes. A knockout!”

TENUTA DI FESSINA Erse Etna Bianco 2012 – 88 points “Bright yellow. Perfumed notes of flowers, vanilla and flint complement ripe banana and pear on the nose. Rich and dense but with lively acidity giving lift to the ripe tropical fruit and smoky stone fruit flavors. Finishes big and almost creamy, with a lemony undertone. A good wine, but I prefer my Carricante wines more crisp, minerally and lemony.”