Website: https://www.sciaraetna.com/
Stef Yim used to be a sommelier in Los Angeles. During his tenure in restaurants, he developed a fascination for wines produced from volcanic soils. He aspired to create his own wine, which led him to purchase a couple of tons of grapes from Lake County in California for his initial attempt. In 2008, he relocated to France, visited Madiran, and interned for three vintages there. Post this, he decided to follow his interest in volcanic wines, almost purchasing vines on Tenerife, but eventually choosing Etna as it seemed less isolating. He bought vineyards in nine different contrada and crafted various wines based on altitude, which is the reason behind their numerical names. All the fermentation processes are carried out with wild yeast without temperature regulation.
Sciara Ubriaco Sulla Luna 2021, Etna, Italy
This is a skin-fermented white from three parcels and multiple varieties. The grapes are kept on their skins for 20 days in ceramic spheres (Clayvers). With a full yellow/gold appearance, this has a deep hue with a slight hint of mint, fennel, and pine nut to the scent. The palate presents a blend of flavors including pear and citrus, as well as a wonderful texture, offering complexity and detail. The rating stands at 95/100.
Sciara 760 Etna Rosso 2020
Constituting of 90% Nerello Mascalese and 10% Nerello Cappuccio, sourced from Taccione and Sciaranuova. The mixture also contains 20% new oak and 80% fibreglass and is aged for 20 months. The final product is supple and elegant with a hint of fine spiciness and appealing detail. Additionally, it is juicy and linear with a grainy texture, good structure, and drinkability. The rating is 94/100.
Sciara 980 Etna Rosso 2020
From three parcels. The backbone is Carrana (930 m) with Monte Doice (900 m) and Rampanti (also called Batbabecchi, 860-990 m). 100% Nerello Mascalese, aged 20 months in a mix of barrel and fibreglass. This is supple and fresh with fine redcurrant and strawberry notes as well as a touch of raspberry. Lovely direct fruit here with a stony minerality and hints of sour cherry. Lively and juicy with some structure. 94/100
Sciara 1200 Etna Rosso 2020
This is Garnacha from Nave, fermented in an amphora buried in the vineyard at 1200 m. Lovely supple red fruits with red cherries and some stony notes. Very fine with redcurrants, spice and a hint of ginger. Structured and fresh with lovely purity and refinement. 96/100
Sciara Centenario 2021
From 630 m, this is 100% Nerello Mascalese on its own roots. 75% amphora, 25% fibreglass, 20 month elevage. Warm, rounded and supple with fine-grained tannins providing some grip. Peppery, vital palate with juiciness and a touch of tar and spice. Detailed, rounded and warm. 94/100