Planeta Alastro Bianco 2023

Region and Vineyards

Planeta Alastro Bianco is produced in the Menfi DOC, a region renowned for its rich viticultural heritage and diverse microclimates. The vineyards are located in the district of Sambuca di Sicilia (AG), specifically in the Ulmo vineyard, which lies at an altitude of 200 to 250 meters above sea level. The soils here are medium-textured, moderately deep, and rich in pebbles, lime, and areas of dark organic matter.

The vines are cultivated according to organic agriculture principles and the SOStain® protocol, which includes ground cover with clover, vetch, yellow mustard, and wild plants to increase organic substance and nitrogen content, aiding the welfare of the soil's microfauna. Plant health is protected by small quantities of sulfur and copper, with the use of beneficial insects and natural restoratives such as zeolite and kaolin.

Winemaking

Planeta Alastro Bianco is a blend of 85% Grecanico and 15% Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes are handpicked at different times from August 21st to September 25th and immediately brought to the cellar. They are crushed and destemmed, with the must kept refrigerated at 3°C-5°C for 4-5 days. Afterward, the clear part of the must is decanted and fermented at approximately 14°C for 18-20 days.

Post-fermentation, the wine is left on its finest lees with weekly stirring in stainless steel tanks. This process imparts additional complexity and richness to the wine. The wine is then bottled in February, ready to be enjoyed immediately or aged for 4-5 years, thanks to the surprising aging capacity of Grecanico.

Tasting Notes

• Color: The wine displays a very light yellow color with green nuances, indicating its vitality and potential for longevity.
• Aroma: The nose is particularly aromatic, with notes of mountain herbs, yellow flowers, and French honeysuckle honey. Subtle hints of Williams pear, aromatic citrus, saffron, and flint add complexity.
• Palate: On the palate, it is fresh and vibrant yet creamy and silky, with flavors of white peach emerging. The contrast between freshness and creaminess provides a delightful drinking experience.

Did you know?

Planeta Alastro is named after a wildflower that grows around the winery. This wine has been a staple of Planeta's offerings since the first vintage in 1995, consistently reflecting the winery's commitment to sustainability and organic practices.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Warm salad of seafood: The freshness of the wine complements the delicate flavors of the seafood, enhancing the dish's overall profile.
• Spicy Asiatic dishes with sweet-sour sauce: The wine's aromatic intensity and slight sweetness balance the heat and complexity of Asian spices.
• Mediterranean pasta dishes: Its vibrant acidity and creamy texture pair wonderfully with tomato-based sauces and Mediterranean herbs.
• Vegetarian recipes: The wine’s herbaceous and floral notes highlight the freshness of vegetable-based dishes, making it an excellent choice for vegetarian cuisine.

History of Planeta Estate

Planeta's winemaking journey began in 1984, initiated by Vito Planeta and further developed by his son, Diego Planeta. Diego was a visionary who transformed the family's agricultural operations into a modern winery. His efforts were crucial in elevating the status of Sicilian wines on the global stage. Under his leadership, Planeta embraced a philosophy that combined traditional winemaking with modern techniques, setting a high standard for quality.

The next generation, including Diego's children Francesca, Alessio, and Santi, continued this legacy by expanding the winery across various regions in Sicily. Their innovative approach and dedication to sustainability have solidified Planeta’s reputation as a leader in the wine industry. Today, Planeta operates multiple estates across Sicily, each specializing in different grape varieties and wine styles.

Region and Vineyards

Planeta's vineyards are spread across five key regions in Sicily, each offering unique terroirs that contribute to the diverse portfolio of wines. These regions are Menfi, Vittoria, Noto, Etna, and Capo Milazzo. The varied climates, altitudes, and soil compositions across these regions allow Planeta to cultivate a wide range of grape varieties, producing wines that are true expressions of their origins.

The Menfi region is home to the Ulmo and Dispensa estates, located near Lake Arancio and the Mediterranean Sea. These estates are characterized by diverse soils and microclimates, ideal for cultivating a variety of grapes including Chardonnay, Nero d'Avola, and Syrah. The vineyards are managed with an emphasis on organic practices and sustainability.

The Dorilli estate in Vittoria is known for producing Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG wines, Sicily's only DOCG. The fine red sandy soils here are perfect for growing Nero d'Avola and Frappato, resulting in wines with a unique expression of the terroir.

In Noto, the Buonivini estate is famous for its "invisible winery" that blends seamlessly into the landscape. The region’s extreme microclimate and limestone soils are ideal for Nero d'Avola and Moscato Bianco, producing wines with exceptional aromatic intensity and complexity.

The Feudo di Mezzo estate on the northern slopes of Mount Etna benefits from volcanic soils rich in minerals. At altitudes between 610 and 860 meters, the vineyards are ideal for cultivating Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, which thrive in the unique conditions created by the volcanic activity.

The La Baronia estate in Capo Milazzo is a small but innovative vineyard that focuses on ancient grape varieties. This estate supports local socio-cultural initiatives, reflecting Planeta’s commitment to community and sustainability.

Planeta Wine Range

Planeta produces a diverse range of wines, each showcasing the unique characteristics of Sicily's terroirs. Here are a few examples:

• Chardonnay Sicilia Menfi DOC: This iconic Chardonnay is grown in the Ulmo vineyard in Menfi. It is known for its rich and complex profile, characterized by tropical fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and a touch of oak from barrel aging. The wine showcases the perfect synergy between Sicilian terroir and this classic grape variety.

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  Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG: The only DOCG wine in Sicily, Cerasuolo di Vittoria is a blend of Nero d'Avola and Frappato from the Dorilli estate. It is characterized by vibrant red fruit flavors, floral notes, and a balanced, elegant structure. The fine sandy soils of Vittoria contribute to its fresh and lively profile.
• Etna Rosso DOC: Produced from Nerello Mascalese grapes grown on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, this wine embodies the unique terroir of the region. It features aromas of red berries, spices, and herbs, with a firm tannic structure and a distinct mineral finish. The high-altitude vineyards of Feudo di Mezzo lend elegance and finesse to the wine.
• Mamertino DOC: This historic wine, favored by Julius Caesar, is crafted from a blend of Nero d'Avola and Nocera grapes. It exhibits rich fruit flavors, aromatic spices, and a smooth, well-rounded palate. The La Baronia estate in Capo Milazzo provides the perfect conditions for producing this unique and storied wine.
• Santa Cecilia IGT Sicilia: Santa Cecilia is Planeta's flagship wine, made entirely from Nero d'Avola grapes grown in Noto. It offers a deep, complex bouquet of dark fruits, balsamic notes, and spices, with a powerful yet refined structure. This wine represents the pinnacle of Nero d'Avola, showcasing the variety's potential for elegance and longevity.
• Burdese IGT Sicilia: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, Burdese is a powerful and structured wine. It features rich flavors of dark berries, cedar, and tobacco, with firm tannins and a long, complex finish. Aged in oak barrels, it showcases the potential of Bordeaux varieties in Sicily's unique terroir.

Did you know?

Planeta’s La Baronia estate supports the Fondazione Lucifero, a foundation that aids children in need. Additionally, Planeta collaborates with the Vivi Sano Onlus to create a 'Park of Health' in Palermo and partners with Oxfam to support women in farming, promoting sustainable food practices globally​