Nerello Cappuccio

Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio are the two grapes of Etna Rosso DOC. Mascalese has to be at least 80% of the blend with Cappuccio making up the balance. To my palate Mascalese is the Pinot Noir like elegance and perfume of the blend while Cappuccio is the Merlot richness and roundness. Together they form a mighty combination.

Mt Etna

Just a wonderfully unlikely sounding spot. Situated on the volcano and all. But it means that it has the most mineral laden soils of all vineyard areas on earth. When tasting Benanti’s white I originally wrote Montrachet like in the notes. Subsequently thought I might be overstating my case. But then further tastings have proven me correct. But you can decided that for yourself.