Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The wine comes from the Montelaguardia vineyard in Contrada Taccione, within Castiglione di Sicilia on the northern side of Etna DOC. Contrada Taccione lies at approximately 700 m and comprises an unusually extensive vineyard of nearly 10 hectares, surrounded by woodland and open to ample light. The recorded altitude range is 690–720 m.
The well-exposed soils are black with volcanic sand, exceptionally rich in minerals and marked by a coarse, substantial structure. Woodland and comparatively recent lava flows surround the site. The vines are espalier trained and Guyot pruned at a density of 5,050 plants per hectare. The 2024 yield was 73 quintals per hectare, equivalent to 7.3 tonnes per hectare.
Cultivation follows organic-farming principles and the SOStain® protocol. Spontaneous vegetation is retained as ground cover to build organic matter and support soil microfauna. Plant protection uses limited amounts of sulphur and copper, while beneficial insects, mating disruption, zeolite, kaolin and plant extracts are employed against pests. The wine carries Organic Wine and SOStain® certifications.
Grapes
100% Carricante. The first vintage was 2012.
Vinification
The 2024 grapes were harvested by hand from 23 to 28 September in 15–17 kg crates. They were immediately chilled at 6–8 °C overnight, then hand-selected on a vibrating table the following day. Light destemming and crushing were followed by gentle pressing. The must settled for three to four days before being racked and fermented at approximately 15 °C. Seventy percent fermented in stainless-steel tanks; the remaining 30% fermented in 25 and 50 hl oak casks and Nevers oak tonneaux.
Ageing
The wine remained in its fermentation vessels until March, with stirring of the fine lees. The first bottling of the 2024 vintage took place in July 2025.
Technical data
- Alcohol: 13% vol.
- Total acidity: 5.7 g/L
- pH: 3.18
- Formats: 0.75 L and 1.5 L
- Bottle weight: 400 g for the 0.75 L format
- Closures: single-piece natural cork and DIAM®
- Ageing capacity: 5–7 years
Tasting profile
The 2024 opens with white acacia blossom, fresh white almond, mountain peach and a suggestion of pale hazelnut cream. Subtle oak is integrated into the wine’s volcanic character. The palate is harmonious and rich, with yellow-plum and prickly-pear flavours, finishing with balanced acidity. Black volcanic sand and high elevation contribute complexity and a three-dimensional quality to its aromas and flavours.
Serving and pairing
Pair with raw fish and fresh fruit, fish-based first courses or soft stretched-curd cheeses. It can also be served as an aperitif.
Vintage notes
The 2024 growing season brought a mild winter and spring, followed by light, evenly distributed rainfall that supported the vines through harvest. Crop volume was 15% above the average.
