We could just say a yummy Italian find for just $19 with double the 92 point reviews and leave it there, however…

Agent Noir has a soft spot for wines grown on the tiniest of Mediterranean islands. Mostly because they are delicious by default. Says he also wants to retire somewhere in that vicinity, ideally with a tiny boat, drifting from island to island with the changing winds.

We now drift to the Aeolian island of Vulcano. Exactly as the name, an archetypical volcano, teeny and dormant, rising over deep blue waters and idyllic beaches. Once one of the many underwater chimneys of the Etna complex, today’s Vulcano awaits that infrequent ferry full of tourists to liven things up. The gnarly head-pruned old vines clinging onto what once was all lava, overlooking endless seas, producing tiny yields, yet the boldest of aromas and flavors, thanks to the never-ending Tyrrhenian breeze.

Bright ruby with the unusual combination of garnet and purple highlights within. Exotic with red and blue fruits, flowers, herbs, smoke, and minerals, the perfume is complex as can be. Lively on the palate, while measured, satiny while sappy, sweet while savory, this is almost too easy to drink as it glides down with a yearning for a next sip. Lingers effortlessly with hints of dried fruits, roasted nuts, a spice bazaar, cured meats… all show up taking turns on the impressively long finish. In a style and from a culture that makes wine meant for food, from wild game roasts to rich tomato-based fish stews to cheeseboards.

From a UNESCO World Heritage Site to your geeky stash of the coolest reds, you will LAVA this superb steal!

92 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“The 2017 Hierà opens to a pretty bouquet that is not too intense but shows bright cherry, cassis and candied rose hip. This is a mid-weight red that glides smoothly over the palate, not particularly held back by tannins or structure. Indeed, the wine is almost weightless and definitely silky and bright. This is a great value wine (if you can find it…) and would make a great match for a Moroccan lamb couscous. Drink 2019-2024.”

92 Points – James Suckling

“A pretty Sicilian red with dried hibiscus and rose petals, as well as the ubiquitous glazed, dark cherries. Round and juicy, but with enough tannin bite to be quite structured and elegant. Drink now.”