Benanti's entry-level 2013 Etna Rosso di Verzella represents a blend of fruit from the estate's various holdings on the north, east and south flanks of the volcano. The blend is a traditional 80-20 mix of Nerellos Mascalese and Cappuccio. The wine sports a light ruby color and straightforward fruit tones of wild berry and cassis. Volcanic traits of smoke and ash also add to the aromatic profile of this pretty wine.

The 2012 Etna Rosso di Verzella is a classic blend of Etna red grapes consisting of 80% Nerello Mascalese and 20% Nerello Cappuccio. Some ten months in medium-toast barrique leave a sure mark, and this expression is rounder and richer than many of its peers. Fruit is sourced from the northern face of the volcano in the Contrada Verzella at 600 to 650 meters above sea level. Ripe cherry and fresh prune segue to light spice and leather. A bright point of freshness keeps it lively and pure. Drink 2014-2020. Benanti has led efforts to raise Etna to the winemaking heights it enjoys today. Back when the notion of Contrade (Etna subzones) was a hazily defined fledgling idea, the Benanti family was carefully experimenting with indigenous grapes planted at various altitudes and locations on the massive cone of the volcano. The modern success of Etna wine is unquestionably linked to the hard work and innovation underway at Benanti.

A suave, balanced red, open-knit and juicy, offering pretty cherry and berry fruit and accents of violet, herb and smoke. Light tannins show on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 200 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Sicily / Etna Select to Add

Light game and underbrush notes mark the sour cherry and wild currant fruit. Chewy, with a moderate finish of fruit and woodsy spice. Drink now. 2,500 cases made, 350 cases imported.??–NW??Region: Italy / South / Sicily / Etna Select to Add

Benanti’s Etna red opens with earthy tones of terracotta, dark chocolate, roasted espresso and creme de cassis. There’s a gritty, thick feel to the tannins and the overall structure. ——M.L.(4/1/2012)—— 89