About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Carricante is grown at Montelaguardia in Contrada Taccione, within Castiglione di Sicilia on the northern side of the Etna denomination. The well-lit vineyard covers almost 10 hectares and lies at 690–720 metres above sea level, surrounded by woodland. Its black lava sands are rich in minerals and large-sized structural components, with more recent lava flows nearby.
The vines are trained on espalier systems and Guyot-pruned, at a density of 5,050 plants per hectare. The 2024 yield was 73 quintals per hectare, equivalent to 7.3 tonnes per hectare.
The vineyard is managed under organic-agriculture criteria and SOStain® protocols. Spontaneous ground cover increases organic matter and supports soil microfauna. Plant health is protected with small quantities of sulphur and copper, while beneficial insects, mating disruption, zeolite, kaolin and plant extracts are used against pests. The wine is certified organic and SOStain®.
Grapes
100% Carricante. The first vintage was 2012.
Vinification
The 2024 grapes were harvested by hand from 23 to 28 September and placed in 15–17 kg crates. They were chilled immediately at 6–8 °C for one night. On the following day, the fruit was selected manually on a vibrating table, lightly crushed and destemmed, then softly pressed.
The must settled for 3–4 days before racking. Fermentation took place at approximately 15 °C, with 70% of the volume in stainless-steel tanks and 30% in 25 and 50 hL oak vessels and Nevers oak tonneaux.
Ageing
The wine remained in the same vessels until March, with agitation of the fine lees. The first bottling of the 2024 vintage took place in July 2025.
Technical data
- Alcohol: 13% vol.
- Total acidity: 5.7 g/L
- pH: 3.18
- Formats: 0.75 L and 1.5 L
- Bottle weight: 400 g for the 0.75 L format
- Closures: single-piece natural cork and DIAM®
- Ageing potential: 5–7 years
Tasting profile
The 2024 has a complex, three-dimensional aromatic profile shaped by the combination of Etna's black sands and altitude. White acacia blossom, fresh white almond, mountain peach and white hazelnut cream appear on the nose. The oak remains subtle and integrated with the volcanic character. The palate is harmonious and rich, with yellow plum and prickly-pear flavours followed by balanced acidity.
Serving and pairing
Pair with raw fish and fresh fruit, fish-based first courses, or pasta filata cheeses. It can also be served as an aperitif.
Vintage notes
Winter and spring preceding the 2024 harvest were mild. Light, evenly distributed rainfall supported the vines through to harvest. Production was 15% above the average.