2017 Etna Rosso Contrada Cavaliere

Here's an exciting new wine from the Benati family that showcases their latest vineyard acquisitions in the Contrada Cavaliere in Santa Maria di Licodia (with vines at 900 meters above sea level on the southwest side of Etna). The 2017 Etna Rosso Contrada Cavaliere reveals a darker appearance and a more intense aromatic profile, which are characteristics of this flank of the Etna volcano. This is a very expressive Etna red, meant for rich meat sauces on pasta, but it does show marked differences from the wines made in the area between Castiglione di Sicilia and Passopisciaro. For one, the aromas here are slightly more fruit-driven, with bright cherry and red apple skin. The tannins are a bit sweeter and glossier as well. They don't show that volcanic dryness you sometimes get. In all, this new wine has deftly navigated this hot and dry vintage. Production is 5,300 bottles strong.