Antonio Benanti

Teaches at Corkbuzz Restaurant & Wine Bar

Antonio is the son of Benanti founder Giuseppe Benanti, who established his winery as “Tenuta di Castiglione”, on the northern slope of active volcano Mount Etna in 1988. Giuseppe, a chemist and entrepreneur in the pharmaceutical industry, noted the absence of high-quality, fine wine in the Etna DOC, despite the fact that the DOC existed since 1968. Inspired by the world of fine wine, and his love for Etna, where his grandfather had grown grapes in the late 1800’s, Giuseppe decided to fulfill his passion for the area and wine by championing the native grapes, Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and Carricante. The 1990’s and 2000’s were a time of tremendous growth and acclaim for Benanti and the wines of Etna. Giuseppe’s sons, twins Antonio and Salvino have run the winery since 2012. 

Antonio & Salvino have brought the reputation to greater heights, introducing organic farming, use of only local grape varieties, and utilizing the slopes on all sides of Etna. This pioneering winery is renowned for its elegant and refined wines, showcasing the terroir of the volcano. In addition to his work in his family winery, Antonio is the President of the Etna DOC Consortium, a Certified Sommelier who loves to explore his passion for wine, travel and culture.