The Tenuta di Castellaro 2017 Nero Ossidiana is a blend of 90% Corinto Nero and 10% Nero d`Avola that opens to a mid-weight texture and a dark garnet color. The bouquet is very elegant and fragrant with a whiff of red roses that makes a nice first impression. That floral preface is followed by fainter tones of cherry and cassis with some iron ore or rusty nail. The fruit is harvested from a three-hectare parcel (at 350 meters in elevation) with very deep sandy volcanic soils that are rich in minerals. What stands out most in this 6,700-bottle production is the delicate and pretty nature of those aromas. 92 points

The 2017 Nero Ossidiana is dark and animalistic, as wild herbs and hints of musk give way to crushed blackberries and black porous stones. It’s silky and pliant, striking a balance of zesty acids, minerals and tart black fruits that creates a lovely symmetry. A subtle coating of fine tannin lingers, framing the experience well, as this finishes lightly structured and persistent. The Ossidiana is nicely balanced and aims to please. It’s a blend of 90% Corinto Nero and 10% Nero d`Avola. 91 points