“Contrada Cavaliere” Bianco Etna DOC 2024

Benanti Viticoltori | Sicily
Benanti Viticoltori S.p.a. | Via Garibaldi 361 | IT 95029 Viagrande

19130424 · 0,75 l · 60,00 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

Just under 950 metres above sea level, on the south-western slope of Mount Etna, lies Contrada Cavaliere, a single vineyard that stands out even within the diverse world of Etna's Contrade. Less rainfall than elsewhere on the volcano, but abundant sunshine and dramatic temperature fluctuations between day and night: conditions that lend the Carricante that unmistakable intensity for which connoisseurs seek out this Contrada. The 50-year-old vines are rooted in skeletal volcanic sands with a sub-acidic profile – a soil that forces the plant to develop deep roots and guarantees low yields of just 6,000 kg per hectare. The grapes, harvested by hand in October and gently pressed, ferment in stainless steel tanks using the estate's own Etna yeast. The wine then rests on the fine lees for twelve months, stirred regularly, followed by a further six months of bottle ageing.

Pale straw yellow with greenish hues. A bouquet of intense sophistication – orange blossom, ripe apple, underpinned by the characteristic flinty note that betrays its volcanic origins. On the palate, it is dry and mineral, with vibrant acidity and a salty depth that flows seamlessly into a finish of aniseed and sweet almond. Precision and elegance in perfect balance. A Contrada wine that demonstrates why Etna's mosaic of terroirs is so utterly fascinating. SUPERIORE.DE

"With pretty floral notes and hints of cut grass, the Benanti 2024 Etna Bianco Contrada Cavaliere is expressive and bright, with a distinctly slaty mineral side. This Carricante comes from Contrada Cavaliere on the southwest slope of the volcano, and to my palate, it shows a slightly more floral signature. Aged for 12 months on the fine lees in stainless steel, it remains easy and approachable on the palate." Wine Advocate

"A vibrant wine with aromas of licorice, lemon leaves, cedar and toast. Light-bodied, zesty and citrusy, with focused acidity and a tight-knit structure." James Suckling