About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Isolano comes from mountain viticulture on Etna’s northern slope, including Donnafugata’s estate in the municipality of Randazzo and other particularly suitable sites. The vineyards lie predominantly between 600 and 750 m above sea level on mountainous terrain with sandy volcanic soils. Sloping parcels are traditionally arranged as terraces supported by dry-stone lava walls. The vines are trained as Etna bush vines and on vertical trellises pruned to spurred cordon.
The continental climate carries Mediterranean influences, with cold winters and pronounced day–night temperature swings in summer. Northern Etna receives less rainfall than the volcano’s other slopes, favouring grape ripening.
Grapes
100% Carricante.
Vinification
The 2023 grapes were harvested by hand into crates and carefully selected in the vineyard, mainly during the final ten days of September. At the winery, the bunches underwent a further selection on a vibrating table. Gentle pressing was followed by fermentation of the must in stainless steel at controlled temperature.
Ageing
Eight months in tank, followed by at least 24 months in bottle before release.
Technical data
2023: 12.5% alcohol by volume; total acidity 6.1 g/L; pH 3.22. First vintage: 2019. Ageing potential exceeds 10 years.
Tasting profile
Pale straw yellow. Fragrant citrus and flinty mineral aromas are joined by white peach and Mediterranean scrub. The palate is persistent, with a distinctive volcanic minerality.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 10–12°C with shellfish, vegetarian first courses, porcini mushrooms, fish dishes or white meats.
Vintage notes
In 2023, abundant May rainfall was followed by above-average temperatures in July. Careful vineyard work allowed the grapes to reach the desired ripeness. Production declined, while fruit quality remained aligned with the intended standard.
Label / history
Created through the partnership between Dolce&Gabbana and Donnafugata, Isolano combines Carricante from Etna with packaging inspired by Sicily. Dolce&Gabbana’s design uses the red, green, blue and yellow colours and geometric motifs of the traditional Sicilian cart. A smoking Etna occupies the centre of the composition, suspended between earth and sky.
