Serra della Contessa, Benanti - 2011

I really dig grapes grown on and around volcanoes. Did you know that Mount Etna is one of the world's most active volcanoes, creating extremely fertile soils because of its almost constant activity? This gorgeous red exhibits unique qualities reminiscent of its semi-Mediterranean climate and volcanic origins. You might think the region is arid, but in fact this part of Sicily sees intense rains and snowfall. The aromas and flavors include dried cherries, dried flowers, dried tea leaves and wisps of smoke. The tannins are as fine as the volcanic ash falling from the sky due to Etna, but they are persistent! Benanti makes wines worthy of age, but if you must drink it now pair with citrus and rosemary marinated pork or roasted cauliflower with golden raisins and fennel.