“Contrada Rinazzo” Bianco Etna Superiore DOC 2024

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

19130524 · 0,75 l · 69,33 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

Milo. A name that inspires awe amongst connoisseurs. This small village on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna is the only place whose white wines are permitted to bear the designation "Superiore" – as stipulated by the Etna DOC regulations. Here, in Contrada Rinazzo, where steep terraces with dry stone walls made of black lava rock look down towards the Ionian Sea, the Carricante grape perhaps finds its purest expression. At an altitude of 800 metres, just eight kilometres from the sea, the climate is characterised by constant ventilation, abundant light and marked temperature variations. The young vines are trained using the traditional Alberello system, supported by chestnut stakes, at a density of 8,000 vines per hectare. The mineral-rich volcanic sand, with its sub-acidic profile and fine grain, retains moisture and imparts to the grapes that unmistakable salinity which sets Milo wines apart from all other Etna whites. Hand-harvested in mid-October, gently pressed, fermented at 18 °C using the winery's own yeast. Twelve months on the fine lees with regular bâtonnage, followed by a further six months' bottle ageing.

Straw-yellow with bright green highlights. A bouquet of delicate intensity – orange blossom, ripe apple, underpinned by dusty minerality and flint. On the palate, it is dry, taut and salty, with vibrant acidity and a final that leaves a gentle aftertaste of aniseed and bitter almond. SUPERIORE.DE

"A pale, luminous golden-yellow colour. A delicate bouquet with hints of juicy Kaiser pears and limes, along with mineral notes, unfolding in layers. Soft and with a lovely smoothness on the palate, followed by a hint of pepper and saffron; very exciting right through to final lingering final." Falstaff

"The 2024 Etna Bianco Superiore Contrada Rinazzo entices with scents of confectionery spice and sweet smoke. Nuances of freshly sliced nectarines and lemon zest unfold over time. The palate pairs admirable weight and round textures with decadently ripe orchard fruits. A salty inflection adds contrast toward the close while minerality lends focus. The 2024 lingers long with a lemony concentration." Vinous

"Deep and layered wine with a lemon pulp core, lemon bush and herbal notes, white pepper and chalky minerality. Medium-bodied, very savory with vibrant grapefruit flavors, great balance and a lot of energy. Mattery finish. Savory on the lips." James Suckling