Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The Nerello Mascalese grows on Mount Etna’s southeastern slope at 450 metres above sea level. The vines are 14–100 years old and stand in slightly acidic, sandy volcanic soil rich in minerals and ripiddu, small pumice-like lava stones. Planting density is approximately 9,000 vines per hectare, with yields of about 6,500 kg/ha.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested by hand from late September to early October and destemmed. Maceration and fermentation take place in stainless-steel tanks over 21 days, using only native yeasts selected by the winery after extensive trials.
Ageing
The wine matures for 12 months in French oak barrels, followed by an unspecified period in stainless-steel tanks. It then rests for a further 10 months in bottle in the winery’s cellars before release.
Tasting profile
Elegant, with a rich aroma and a generous palate.
Vintage notes
In 2022, recorded as the warmest year of the preceding 180 years, winter brought fairly regular and abundant rainfall. The vines emerged from dormancy slightly earlier than usual and then showed steady, vigorous growth. Conditions during flowering and fruit set produced full, well-formed bunches.
Label / history
The Benanti winemaking dynasty began in the late 19th century, when Giuseppe Benanti, great-grandfather and namesake of the current owner, planted vineyards near Viagrande on Mount Etna’s slopes. The family continued making wine for many years. After taking ownership in 1988, Dr Giuseppe Benanti studied the soils and characteristics of the native grape varieties and introduced modern winemaking methods for traditional grapes. Several wines with distinct styles and expressions of their terroirs followed a few years later. The company follows environmentally responsible winemaking principles and gives particular attention to vineyard work.
