About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Carricante comes from selected vineyards on the eastern and southern slopes of Mount Etna, particularly sites noted for high elevation and abundant light. The vineyards lie at 700–850 m a.s.l. on mineral-rich volcanic sands with a sub-acid reaction. The mountain setting brings high ventilation, strong diurnal variation, and humid, rainy—and at times snowy—winters.
The vines are 20–60 years old. They are grown both as traditional bush vines and on trellises with Guyot training, at 6,000–7,000 vines per hectare. Yields are 7,000–8,000 kg/ha.
Grapes
Carricante, an indigenous white variety of Mount Etna. The variety has medium-sized berries with heavily bloomed green-yellow skins and medium-length, loosely packed bunches.
Vinification
The grapes are picked by hand and softly pressed as whole bunches, without destemming. Fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks at a controlled 16–18°C. The base wine remains on its lees until late spring, when selected yeasts are added at bottling to initiate the second fermentation.
Ageing
Disgorgement and dosage take place after 24 months. The wine then rests for at least another three months.
Technical data
Alcohol: 12–13% vol.
Tasting profile
Pale straw yellow with bright green reflections and numerous, fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is intense yet delicate, with orange blossom, lemon blossom, and ripe apple. Dry and elegant on the palate, with pleasant acidity and sustained aromatic persistence. Light to medium in body.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 6–8°C. Suitable throughout a meal, particularly with delicately fried fish and seafood preparations.
