About this wine
Benanti's entry-level Etna Rosso DOC, blending approximately 80-85% Nerello Mascalese with 15-20% Nerello Cappuccio sourced from estate vineyards across Etna's northern and eastern slopes. Roughly 80% of the wine matures in stainless steel with the remainder aged in second-passage French barriques, offering an accessible, everyday expression of Etna's volcanic character.
The most accessible entry point into Benanti and Etna Rosso in general — light-to-medium body, bright red fruit, and food-friendly acidity make it easy to enjoy right away.
Sommelier's Note
"This is the wine that shows Nerello Mascalese doesn't need decades of aging or a single-contrada label to express Etna's volcanic soul — pure, energetic, and ready to drink now."
Food Pairings
A versatile red for the table — pairs well with pizza, grilled pork, tomato-based pasta, and mushroom risotto, with enough acidity to also work with tuna or swordfish steaks.
When to drink it
Everyday dinners, casual gatherings with friends, an easy introduction to Etna wines
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio
- Style
- Red
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Price Range
- ¥4,500-6,500 (reference estimate converted from overseas retail pricing; not confirmed at Japanese importers)
Terroir & Winemaking
Approximately 80-85% Nerello Mascalese and 15-20% Nerello Cappuccio from estate vineyards on Etna's northern and eastern slopes. Around 80% ferments and matures in stainless steel, while the remainder ages 8-10 months in second-passage French oak barriques, followed by 2-3 months of bottle refinement before release.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What grapes are used in Benanti's entry-level Etna Rosso?
- Approximately 80-85% Nerello Mascalese and 15-20% Nerello Cappuccio from estate vineyards on Etna's northern and eastern slopes.
- How is this different from Benanti's Rovittello or Serra della Contessa?
- This is Benanti's accessible, estate-blend Etna Rosso, while Rovittello and Serra della Contessa are single-contrada wines from specific old-vine parcels with longer aging and more concentration.
- What does Benanti Etna Rosso taste like?
- Pale ruby in color with an ethereal nose of red fruit, wild berries and dried cherry, and a dry, mineral, saline palate with graceful tannins.
- What food pairs well with Benanti Etna Rosso?
- Pizza, grilled pork, tomato-based pasta, and mushroom risotto are classic pairings; it also works with tuna or swordfish steaks thanks to its bright acidity.
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Talk to the SommelierMore wines from this producer
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