“Contrada Cavaliere” Rosso Etna DOC 2023

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

19133023 · 0,75 l · 58,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping< 24 units available

The same Contrada, a completely different wine: whilst the Bianco from Cavaliere captivates with its freshness and salinity, the Rosso reveals the other side of this exceptional terroir: Burgundian elegance, volcanic depth and a tannin structure of silky precision. At an altitude of 900 metres on the south-western slope of Mount Etna – higher than most Etna vineyards – 50-year-old Nerello Mascalese vines are trained using the Guyot system. The skeletal volcanic sands, with their sub-acidic profile and excellent drainage, force the roots deep into the soil. Low rainfall, abundant sunshine and dramatic day-night temperature fluctuations characterise a microclimate that endows the grapes with exceptional aromatic complexity. Hand-harvested in mid-October, destemmed, then 21 days of maceration at a controlled temperature using the estate's own Etna yeasts – the result of years of research. The wine matures for twelve months in French tonneaux, then in stainless steel, followed by ten months of bottle ageing.

In the glass, it displays an ethereal ruby red colour of medium depth. The bouquet reveals notes of violet, peony and red rose, underpinned by hints of ash, lapilli and delicate balsamic notes. On the palate, it is dry and medium-bodied, with a tannin structure of remarkable elegance – firm, yet never harsh. Freshness and juiciness carry the wine into a long, dynamic final. A cru wine in the truest sense: a single vineyard, a single producer, an unmistakable character. SUPERIORE.DE

"The high-altitude 2023 Etna Rosso Contrada Cavaliere is remarkably lovely, with a playful blend of wild strawberries, lavender, mint and a subtle hint of violet sweets. The wine is light and graceful, with a crisp acidity that drives the tart berry flavours, whilst rosy, floral notes sweep across the palate. Slightly grippy and long on the finish, the 2023 ends with a pleasantly bitter cranberry note that leaves the palate craving more. It is already a delight, especially when served slightly chilled, but it is also very well suited to medium-term ageing." Vinous

"Aromas of tea rose and black tea are an enticing entry for this supple red, defined by satiny tannins and fresh, juicy acidity. Offers a range of mulled cherry and warm fig fruit flavors underscored by appealing, minerally stone and ash, plus fragrant accents of wild thyme, rosemary, ground anise and white pepper." Wine Spectator