Benanti Pietra Marina - Etna Bianco Superiore 2020

Giuseppe Benanti, since the very beginning in 1988, has aspired to demonstrate the high potential of Carricante grown in Milo. And indeed, this wine, whose name recalls volcanic landscapes, flintstones, minerals and saline sea breezes, is now unanimously considered one of the most typical, elegant and age-worthy whites in Italy.

Vineyard located in Contrada Rinazzo on the Eastern slope of Mount Etna, within the municipality of Milo (CT), an area particularly suited in terms of elevation, abundant luminosity, influence of the sea and constant ventilation.

Carricante 100%, Etna’s noble indigenous white grape variety. The berry is medium-sized with very pruinose skin that is greenish-yellow in color. The bunches are of average length and scattered. The vineyard faces east, towards the Ionian sea, at an elevation of c. 800 m a.s.l. (c. 2,600 ft a.s.l.) and is planted on small lava-stone-walled terraces of sandy volcanic soil, rich in minerals, with sub-acid reaction.

The wine matures in a stainless steel vat on the fine lees for about 24 months, with frequent bâtonnages, and then refines in the bottle for 12 months.

The color is pale yellow with greenish nuances. The nose is intense, rich, complex, ample and mildly fruity, with notes of orange blossom flowers and ripe apple. The palate is dry and mineral, with a pleasantly high acidity, saline notes, a marked aromatic persistence and an after taste reminiscent of anise and almond.
Serving temperature: 10 – 12°C

"Benanti remains one of the benchmark estates of Etna and one of the few with vineyards distributed across all four principal volcanic slopes of the appellation." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The Benanti 2020 Etna Bianco Superiore Pietra Marina is a gorgeous wine that carries additional bottle age and, with it, greater complexity. Apricot, saffron and a hint of dried mint emerge against the sharp mineral delineation that gives the wine balance and precision. It sees 30 months in stainless steel. Made with Carricante from Contrada Rinazzo in Milo, it shows impressive substance and richness without losing focus. A total of 10,060 bottles were made, and the price tag is considerable." - 95 Points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"Looking at the last ten seasons in Etna, 2020 falls into the category of a fresh vintage, as did 2016. The 2020 Etna Bianco Superiore Pietra Marina is bright, with notes of saline, fresh pineapple, lemon oil, and petrol. The palate is vertical and exhibits a lot of tension, with a medium-bodied frame, refreshing acidity, and a focused finish. Drink 2025-2045." - 96 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

Producer: Benanti 

Country: Italy

Region: Sicily

Varietal: Carricante

Appellation: Etna Bianco Superiore

Vintage: 2020

Size: 750ml