Benanti 'Contrada Monte Serra' Etna Rosso 2021

This is a wine made from 100% Nerello Mascalese. The wine showcases a clear, dark red color that's not overly intense. Its bouquet is inviting, featuring aromas of ripe cherry and dried cranberry, complemented by hints of oak, earthy forest floor, and savory nuances. On the palate, savory flavors dominate, with tannins asserting themselves at the forefront but balanced by lively acidity. Subtle traces of dried leaves and sweet tobacco add complexity to the experience.

Contrada Monte Serra is located in Viagrande, situated on the southeastern slope of Mount Etna. The vineyard features a mix of head-trained bush vines with some vines being over 100 years old, using a short-pruning training system. With a vine density of 9,000 plants per hectare in the "alberello" style, the vines are cultivated on small terraces supported by dry lava-stone walls.

The Benanti family's winemaking heritage dates back to the late 1800s in Viagrande. This passion culminated in the establishment of the Benanti winery by Giuseppe Benanti in 1988. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, the winery exclusively utilizes indigenous grape varieties, including Carricante, Nerello Mascalese, and Nerello Cappuccio. With vineyards spanning the North, East, South-East, and South-West slopes of the volcano, the unique climatic conditions and volcanic soils contribute to wines that truly reflect their terroir. Benanti is distinctive for being the only winery with vineyards on every slope within the Etna DOC region.

After 25 years of leadership and significant contributions to the growth of the region, Giuseppe passed the reins to his sons, Antonio and Salvino Benanti, in 2012. They uphold their father's vision and commitment to tradition, further establishing the winery's reputation as a pioneer of fine wine production on Mount Etna.