Etna DOC Rosso Contrada Cavaliere 2022 Benanti

What kind of wine is it

Benanti's Etna Rosso Contrada Cavaliere is a red wine made exclusively from Nerello Mascalese, an indigenous grape variety grown on the slopes of the volcano. Classified as Etna, it stands out for its dry and full-bodied profile, supported by a pronounced tannic structure. Vinification involves fermentation in steel, followed by maturation in wood and subsequent aging in steel before bottling. This process shapes a structured style that authentically expresses the identity of the volcanic terroir and prepares the palate for a harmonious and complex tasting experience.

Where it comes from

The production area is concentrated in Contrada Cavaliere, located on the southwest side of the volcano in the territory of Santa Maria di Licodia. The vineyards sit at about nine hundred meters above sea level and benefit from high luminosity, which greatly influences the development of the grapes. The area's mountain climate is less rainy than the Etna average and is characterized by marked ventilation, both decisive elements for a clear and consistent expression of the grape variety in its natural environment.

How it is made

The grape harvest takes place around mid-October. In the cellar, fermentation occurs in steel at controlled temperature for about twenty-one days with the help of selected indigenous yeasts, the result of extensive vineyard experimentation. Afterwards, the wine matures for twelve months in French oak tonneaux, an important stage for building its structure. The process ends with a stay in steel, where aging continues for another ten months before bottling.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows an intense ruby red color, a reflection of its time in wood and subsequent evolution in glass. The nose reveals an ethereal bouquet marked by pronounced spicy notes intertwined with scents of red fruit. On the palate, it is dry and full, sustained by a well-defined tannic texture that confers character and depth. The tasting concludes with a persistent and harmonious finish, returning all the aromatic richness and the signature style of the original grape variety.

Food pairings

At the table, it pairs perfectly with flavorful dishes, particularly those based on red meats and game recipes. Its dense tannic weave and aromatic complexity also make it a good match for aged cheeses, providing a pleasant palate balance. Thanks to its structure, the wine supports intense and rich flavors, enhances every bite, and offers a profound and satisfying tasting experience.

When to serve it

This mountain red is ideal for moments of friendly dining, especially when one seeks a wine characterized by fullness and structural harmony. The long maturation cycle ensures remarkable longevity, allowing enjoyment even years after its release on the market. It is ideal for lunches or dinners with substantial fare, as it maintains a consistent territorial identity and delivers a warming sip from start to finish.