Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes primarily from Podere Giudeo in the Val di Mazara, in the Trapani area. The vineyards lie at 85–120 m above sea level across two opposing slopes oriented north/northwest and east/southeast. The Mediterranean climate tends toward semi-arid conditions, with pronounced day-to-night temperature differences that often exceed 15°C. Sea breezes and abundant Sicilian sunshine shape the growing environment. The very deep soils are described as clay-sandy; across Podere Giudeo, clay and carbonates predominate. Vines are trained on vertical trellises and Guyot-pruned, at a density of 4,500 plants per hectare. Yield is 80 quintals per hectare.
Grapes
A blend of Chardonnay, Moscato Bianco and Carricante. Chardonnay contributes liveliness, Moscato Bianco the aromatic dimension, and a smaller component of Carricante elegance and complexity.
Vinification
The grapes are picked by hand from late August to mid-September. After soft pressing, fermentation takes place at controlled temperature.
Ageing
The wine matures for three months sur lie.
Technical data
IGT Terre Siciliane. Alcohol: 12.5% vol. Available in a 750 ml bottle.
Tasting profile
Straw yellow with distinct greenish highlights. The intense aromatic profile combines rose, acacia and elderflower with tropical and white fruit, honey and citrus. Delicate sage and thyme mingle with balsamic and mineral nuances and the zest of citron and lemon. The palate has considerable flavour and tactile intensity; acidity, softness and savouriness are balanced within a creamy texture. The overall style is aromatic, fruity and floral, yet structured and elegant, with freshness and complexity.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 8–10°C. Pair with shellfish, foie gras, fresh cheeses, pasta and other first courses, or Asian cuisine.
Vintage notes
The 2023 Sicilian growing season was among the most difficult of recent years. Unpredictable conditions and downy mildew reduced production by more than 40%, although the surviving bunches remained healthy and intact, aided by water reserves accumulated during spring rains. July temperatures reached 42°C and slowed vine metabolism; some bunches suffered from sun exposure. Storms and cooler conditions in early August helped the vines resume vegetative and productive activity. Ripening was about one week later than in recent vintages. The resulting wines were fine and elegant aromatically, with excellent concentration.
Label / history
Clerí Charme Bianco expanded the Charme family into still wines. It was conceived as a fresh, elegant white with a firm structure, expressing the Mediterranean character of Podere Giudeo.
