Barone di Villagrande Etna Bianco Superiore 2023

Region and Vineyards

The wine hails from Milo, a historic commune on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna, Sicily’s iconic volcano. This is the only area permitted to use the prestigious “Etna Bianco Superiore” designation, reflecting its singular expression of Carricante. At an altitude of approximately 700 metres, the vineyard benefits from strong diurnal temperature variation, aiding the preservation of acidity and aromatic complexity.

The volcanic soils here are composed predominantly of basaltic material, rich in minerals and well-drained—ideal for promoting deep root penetration and vine health. The estate spans 18 hectares, and some vines are up to 75 years old, contributing low yields of concentrated fruit. This unique combination of altitude, volcanic soil, and sea influence from the Ionian coast crafts a white wine of piercing freshness and precision.

Winemaking

Etna Bianco Superiore is a blend of 90% Carricante and 10% other indigenous varieties, such as Minnella or Catarratto, vinified using a minimalist, sustainable approach.

Grapes are harvested manually and fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures for 10 days to preserve purity of fruit and minerality. Importantly, there is no skin maceration, which ensures a precise and taut aromatic profile. Following fermentation, the wine is bottled and aged for 10 months before release to develop complexity and integration.

Fermentation is conducted exclusively with indigenous yeasts, reflecting the estate’s commitment to preserving terroir integrity. No fining or filtration agents are used, and the wine is naturally cold stabilized. The wine is certified organic, a hallmark of Barone di Villagrande’s sustainable viticultural philosophy.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections, indicating youth and freshness.
• Aroma: Expressive notes of lemon zest, white peach, and green apple, layered with wet stone, sea spray, and faint herbal tones.
• Palate: Bone-dry and linear, showcasing taut acidity and a chalky, saline backbone. Flavours of citrus peel, bitter almond, and crushed volcanic rock linger on a long, crystalline finish.

Did you know?

Milo, the source of this Etna Bianco Superiore, is a rare appellation allowed to produce this classification due to its cooler, wetter climate and north-eastern exposure, ideal for Carricante’s slow ripening. The Nicolosi family, owners of Barone di Villagrande, have cultivated these vineyards since the 18th century, making them one of Etna’s longest-standing producers.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled swordfish with lemon and capers – the wine’s citrusy brightness lifts the dish while its minerality echoes the sea.
• Fresh ricotta and herb-stuffed zucchini flowers – complements the wine’s floral and saline edge.
• Linguine alle vongole – the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness and enhances the brininess of the clams.
• Sushi or sashimi platters – clean, umami-laden fish dishes pair beautifully with Carricante’s precision and purity.

History of Barone di Villagrande

The origins of Barone di Villagrande trace back to 1727, when the Nicolosi family was granted land on Mount Etna by royal decree. Their mission: to transform the volcanic slopes from a “horrid and uncultivated place” into a flourishing vineyard. Over the centuries, they not only fulfilled this ambition but became pioneers of winemaking on Etna.

The family played a key role in defining the Etna DOC regulations in 1968, and their deep connection to the land remains intact. Today, Marco Nicolosi Asmundo, the 10th generation winemaker, leads the estate with a blend of historical respect and modern enological insight. A trained oenologist, Marco has upheld the traditional values of the family while introducing sustainable viticultural practices and a terroir-focused approach to winemaking.

Region and Vineyards

Located in Milo, on the eastern slope of Mount Etna, Barone di Villagrande occupies a unique position within the only commune authorized to produce Etna Bianco Superiore DOC wines. The estate spans 18 hectares of organically farmed vineyards at an altitude of 700 metres, where ancient vines of Carricante, Nerello Mascalese, and Nerello Cappuccio thrive in volcanic basalt soils.

The location benefits from a cooler, wetter climate compared to other Etna zones, along with strong sea breezes from the nearby Ionian Sea, which promotes acidity retention and slow ripening. The dramatic terrain, coupled with the estate's meticulous viticulture, allows for wines that reflect both mineral tension and aromatic clarity.

Wine Range of Barone di Villagrande

Barone di Villagrande focuses on both white and red wines from indigenous Etna varieties. The flagship white wines include the Etna Bianco Superiore and its single-vineyard Contrada Villagrande cuvée, both based predominantly on Carricante. These wines are known for their saline minerality, high acidity, and age-worthiness.

The estate also produces Etna Rosso from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, often matured in traditional chestnut barrels, a nod to Etna’s historical practices. In addition, Barone di Villagrande offers sparkling wines and passito styles, rounding out a portfolio that remains faithful to the volcano’s diverse potential.

Did you know?

Barone di Villagrande is one of the only Etna producers still using Sicilian chestnut barrels for aging—an ancient tradition rarely seen today. Their cellar is also notable for its architecture, built into the volcanic rock itself, allowing natural temperature and humidity control year-round.