Planeta Etna Bianco DOC 2022

Winery Background and History

Planeta is a distinguished Sicilian winery established in the mid-1980s by siblings Alessio, Francesca, and Santi Planeta, under the guidance of their uncle, Diego Planeta. The family’s agricultural roots in Sicily date back to the 1600s. Their winemaking journey began at the Ulmo estate in Sambuca di Sicilia, and over the years, they expanded to six distinct wine estates across five regions in Sicily: Ulmo, Dispensa, Dorilli, Buonivini, Sciara Nuova, and La Baronia. Each estate is dedicated to expressing the unique terroir of its location, combining indigenous and international grape varieties. Planeta is committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, aiming to showcase the rich diversity of Sicilian viticulture.

Producer and Winemaker

The winemaking team at Planeta is led by Alessio Planeta, who serves as the head winemaker and viticulturist. He has been instrumental in identifying the best grape varieties for the diverse Sicilian soils and climates. Alessio’s philosophy focuses on minimal intervention and allowing the fruit to express its natural characteristics. His meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking has resulted in wines that are both expressive and balanced, showcasing the best of Sicily.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Carricante grapes for the Etna Bianco DOC 2022 are sourced from Planeta’s Feudo di Mezzo estate, located in the heart of Etna’s wine cultivation area in Castiglione di Sicilia. The vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 690 to 720 meters above sea level, providing a cool climate that is ideal for white grape varieties. The soils are black lava sands, extraordinarily rich in minerals, contributing to the wine’s distinctive minerality and complexity. The unique combination of altitude and volcanic soil imparts a vibrant acidity and aromatic profile to the Carricante grapes. Planeta employs organic farming practices, including ground cover of wild plants to augment organic matter and enhance soil microfauna. Plant health is maintained with minimal use of sulfur and copper, and natural methods such as sexual confusion and natural restoratives like zeolite and kaolin are used to manage pests. This commitment to sustainability ensures the health of the vineyard ecosystem and the quality of the grapes produced.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Carricante

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes are hand-harvested into crates and immediately refrigerated to 8°C to preserve their aromatic qualities. After a careful selection, the grapes undergo light destemming and soft pressing. The decanted must is then racked and fermented at approximately 15°C, with 85% of the fermentation occurring in stainless steel tanks and 15% in oak tonneaux. This approach balances freshness with subtle complexity. Following fermentation, the wine remains on its lees with continuous movement until February, enhancing its texture and depth. This process contributes to the wine’s juiciness and fullness on the palate, while preserving the vibrant fruit characteristics of the Carricante grape.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Etna Bianco offers structured aromas and three-dimensional flavors. On the nose, it presents notes of white acacia flowers, fresh almonds, and mountain peaches. The palate is juicy and full, with hints of yellow plums and prickly pears, leading to a balanced and refreshing finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with raw fish and fresh fruit, making it an excellent choice for sushi or ceviche. It also complements fish appetizers and soft cheeses, and serves as a refined aperitif. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and freshness, serve this wine at a temperature between 8-10°C (46-50°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. Decanting is not necessary; however, opening the bottle shortly before serving can help the wine to open up and reveal its full spectrum of flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the 2022 Etna Bianco is enjoyable upon release, it has the potential to develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. When stored in optimal conditions—away from light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with moderate humidity—it can evolve over the next 3 to 5 years, gaining in richness and depth.

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 92 points (November 2023)

• James Suckling: 92 points (August 2023)