Benanti Etna Rosso Serra della Contessa

About this wine

A single-contrada Etna Rosso from Contrada Monte Serra, on the southeast slope of Etna near Viagrande at roughly 500m, blending approximately 85% Nerello Mascalese with 15% Nerello Cappuccio from pre-phylloxera, ungrafted alberello (bush-trained) vines. Since 2015 Benanti has focused the top bottling exclusively on this historic parcel, extending vinification, maturation and refinement to around 60 months, producing a structured, long-lived Riserva of very limited quantity.

Sommelier's Note

"Serra della Contessa is Benanti's proof that Nerello Mascalese from pre-phylloxera vines can rival serious Burgundy in structure and aging potential — Etna's answer to grand cru terroir."

Food Pairings

Structured tannins and bright acidity make this a natural partner for roast lamb, braised beef, and aged pecorino. It also holds up to grilled game and mushroom-based dishes.

When to drink it

Special occasion dinners, cellar-aging purchases, pairing with substantial meat dishes

Specs

Grape Varieties

Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio

Style

Red

Alcohol

14%

Price Range

¥9,000-13,000 (reference estimate converted from overseas retail pricing; not confirmed at Japanese importers)

Terroir & Winemaking

Approximately 85% Nerello Mascalese, 15% Nerello Cappuccio from pre-phylloxera, ungrafted bush vines (alberello) planted at high density (9,000-10,000 vines/ha) in Contrada Monte Serra. Fermented with extended maceration, aged in large oak casks, with total vinification-to-release timeline extended to roughly 60 months for the modern Riserva bottling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grapes make up Benanti Serra della Contessa?

Approximately 85% Nerello Mascalese and 15% Nerello Cappuccio, from pre-phylloxera, ungrafted bush vines in Contrada Monte Serra.

Why is this wine considered special among Benanti's reds?

Since 2015 Benanti has dedicated this bottling exclusively to a small parcel of centenarian, ungrafted vines and extended aging to roughly 60 months, making it one of the estate's most structured and age-worthy reds.

What does Serra della Contessa taste like?

Expect aromas of clove, dried rose and crushed pine, with a silky palate of red cherry, cranberry, minerals and iron notes, backed by firm but fine tannins.

What food pairs well with Serra della Contessa?

Roast lamb, braised beef, aged pecorino, and grilled game are classic pairings; it also matches richly seasoned Japanese dishes like simmered beef or duck.