Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Fruit comes from estate vineyards and selected growers across Randazzo, Castiglione di Sicilia, Biancavilla and Milo. The sites lie mainly on Mount Etna’s northern slope at elevations between 600 and 900 metres. Volcanic soils support vines ranging from 5 to 80 years old, trained as alberello and modified alberello. Average yield is 6–7 tonnes per hectare.
Grapes
70% Carricante, 20% Catarratto, 5% Grecanico and 5% Inzolia.
Vinification
The harvest takes place at the end of September. The grapes are softly pressed, followed by fermentation at low temperature in steel vats.
Technical data
Etna Bianco D.O.C. Alcohol is 12.5%. Annual production is approximately 2,000 bottles in 750 ml format. The first vintage was released in 2005.
Tasting profile
Pale yellow in colour, with a floral aroma recalling linden blossom. The palate is fresh and saline, with a distinctly mineral character. Contributions from vineyards on three sides of Etna give the wine a combination of gentleness, depth and versatility.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 8–10 °C with light pasta dishes, fish or white meats.
Label / history
Le Vigne di Eli was created by Marco de Grazia in 2006 as a project dedicated to his daughter Elena, who designs its labels. Part of the proceeds supports the Meyer Pediatric Foundation Hospital in Florence.
