Franchetti’s real gems are the single-site reds he bottles called ‘contrade.’ Each Contrada is its own terroir, a lot like a single vineyard but, while a little broader geographically, it’s way more specific, as each spot has a totally unique altitude, exposure and, most importantly, combination of layers of historical lava flows beneath them that influence the soils. Franchetti labels each Contrada with a single letter to define its locale. They are amongst the most amazing wines we’ve ever had from Etna and, tasted side by side, would be as unique a primer on the terroirs of Mount Etna as you could ever have. I have three sets consisting of one bottle each Contradas C, G, R and S so three of you can have the chance to discover for yourselves the depth, complexity and uniqueness of Etna’s best vineyards for yourself. First come, first served!

Contrada C (Chiappamacine):

Jeb Dunnuck, 96 points: The 2023 Contrada C has expressive notes coming from Chiappemacine, with volcanic and calcareous limestone soils. It lifts with lovely, floral, perfumed notes of ripe raspberries, roses, and savory, fresh herbs. Medium-bodied, it exhibits great expressiveness on the palate, with mouthwatering salinity, a mineral-tinged, gripping texture, and a long finish. Finessed, it has compact intensity and a focused and linear feel, and its mineral persistence is incredible. Drink 2026-2046.

Vinous, 93 points: A mix of spiced cherries, woodland berries, cedar shavings and cloves defines the 2023 Rosso Contrada C. This possesses a core of silken textures and a blend of red and blue fruits, cool-toned and pliant as an air of lavender pastille forms toward the close. It tapers off pleasantly tart and full of tension, with sweet, rounded tannins.

Contrada G (Guardiola):

James Suckling, 96 points: A complex, elegant wine. Impressive fresh strawberries and red cherries are enhanced by mint, aromatic herbs and stony minerality. Dense and full-bodied, it shines with powerful structure and almost zesty acidity. Tight, biting yet ripe tannins are dustier in the finish. Best after one or two years. Drink from 2026.

Jeb Dunnuck, 95 points: Coming from Guardiola, the 2023 Contrada G is a youthful ruby color. They struggled with Peronospora here in this vintage, resulting in greatly reduced yields. Sacrifice aside, it’s a fantastic wine, with gorgeous with notes of black raspberries, violets, sage, and hints of anise. It’s savory on the palate, with ripe tannins and slightly broader shoulders, and it has deeper notes and a more saturating and rounder texture as well as a long finish. 

Contrada R (Rampante):

James Suckling, 96 points: Sliced plums and cherries with heather and fresh thyme on the nose. Medium-bodied, this has fine tannins and a creamy finish with nice tension. Focused, pristine young wine, showing layers of tightly curated fruit.

Jeb Dunnuck, 95 points: Coming from Rampante and pouring a bright red hue, the 2023 Contrada R leads with pomegranate as its elegant perfume floats from the glass with roses, red berries, and crushed stones. On the palate, it reveals dusty earth, refined but chalky tannins, a good amount of grip, and a lovely, savory finish. This is another gorgeous wine in this vintage from Passopisciaro.

Contrada S (Sciaranuova):

Jeb Dunnuck, 96 points: A bright medium red color, the 2023 Contrada S is spicy, with notes of cardamom, incense, and fresh cherries. Medium-bodied, it’s saturated with saltiness, orange peel, and a pithy texture, as well as a chalky structure reminiscent of Nebbiolo. Deep and smoky, it’s a total delight now as well. Drink 2027-2047.

Vinous, 95 points: The 2023 Rosso Contrada S is a gentle giant wafting up with a delicate bouquet of white smoke, ash, dried violet, lavender and blackberry. This washes across the palate with ease, silken in feel with a liquid floral concentration that coats the senses as ripe red and blue fruits swirl over a stream of vibrant acidity. An array of sweet spices combine with purple inner florals and round tannins as this tapers off, structured yet wickedly fresh. The 2023 is a total success for this challenging vintage.