About this wine

Vineyard and terroir

The Carricante is selected from high-altitude vineyards on Mount Etna’s eastern and southern slopes, between 700 and 850 metres above sea level. The sandy volcanic soils are rich in minerals and have a sub-acid reaction. The mountainous, hilly terrain provides strong ventilation and pronounced temperature swings, while the cooler season is humid and rainy.

The vines are between 20 and 60 years old and include both traditional alberello bush vines and trellised, Guyot-trained rows. Planting density ranges from 6,000 to 7,000 vines per hectare, with yields of 7,000–8,000 kilograms per hectare.

Grapes

100% Carricante. The variety has medium-sized berries with heavily bloomed green-yellow skins and medium-length, loosely packed bunches.

Vinification

The grapes are harvested by hand and gently pressed as whole bunches without destemming. Primary fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 16–18°C. The base wine remains on its lees until late spring, when it is bottled with selected yeasts to initiate the second fermentation.

Ageing

Produced by the traditional method. Disgorgement and dosage take place after 48 months, followed by at least three further months of rest.

Technical data

Alcohol: 12–13% vol.

Tasting profile

Pale straw yellow with bright greenish highlights and numerous fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is intense and delicate, with orange blossom, lemon blossom and ripe apple. Dry and elegant on the palate, with refreshing acidity and sustained aromatic persistence. The style is light- to medium-bodied, refined and complex.