2021 Etna Rosso, Contrada Dafara Galluzzo, Benanti

Here's a submission from Benanti that comes from a rather unknown contrada. The 2021 Etna Rosso Contrada Dafara Galluzzo is located in Castiglione di Sicilia on the north side of the volcano. The wine shows a medium-light appearance with savory volcanic notes of ash and campfire surrounded by delicate fruit, tart cherry and cassis. The wine has fine tannins with dusty sensations that come from the volcanic environment. Ultimately, the finish is dusty and drying to the palate. This gives the wine an accessible personality. ~ (92) Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 6-30-2023

~ (94) Eric Guido, Vinous 6-1-2023

Aromatic and bright with sliced orange peel and watermelon with some cherry, too. Medium body, with firm and medium-velvety tannins that are long and caressing. From organically grown grapes. Lovely now. ~ (93) James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 8-7-2023

Round and creamy, this medium-bodied red has a rich note of fresh loamy earth underscoring flavors of baked cherry, mocha, dried thyme, smoke and spices. Lightly chewy on the juicy finish. Drink now through 2029. 436 cases made, 177 cases imported. ~ (91) Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator 2-29-2024