Planeta Alastro Bianco 2023

Planeta Alastro Bianco 2023

 

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Planeta
Alastro Bianco 2023
  • Vintage : 2023
  • Country : Italy
  • Region : Sicily
  • Subregion
  • Type : White
  • Style : Crisp Dry White
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 12,5°
  • Grappes : 85% Grecanico, 15% Sauvignon Blanc

Planeta Alastro Bianco is a delicately structured Sicilian white wine, blending the native Grecanico with the aromatic Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing and vibrant experience.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 87 2020
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 91 2018
DCT Decanter 93 2017
More information on wine critics and ratings

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

Francesca Planeta
Francesca Planeta

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.

Ulmo Vineyards
Ulmo Vineyards

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.

Capo Milazzo
Capo Milazzo

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.
  • Cerasuolo di Vittoria
    Cerasuolo di Vittoria
    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​

Robert Parker (RP) : 87 Points (2020)
A blend of 80% Grecanico and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, the Planeta 2020 Sicilia Menfi Alastro has two main components to the bouquet. The first is crushed stone and the second is fragrant white flower, like lemon or peach blossom. This white is thin and snappy with a charming sense of accessibility and ease of drinking. Production stands at about 100,000 bottles.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 91 Points (2018)
The sweetly perfumed 2018 Il Bianco La Segreta mixes honeyed florals with ripe apples, apricots and hints of hazelnut to create a deeply seductive display. It’s silky-smooth with medium-bodied weight, offset by a wave of salty acids, minerals and citrus-infused green apple. The balance of richness and contrasting components dazzles the senses. This lingers long with a hint of custard while remaining perfectly refreshing. The 2019 Il Bianco, a blend of 50% Grecanico, 30% Chardonnay, 10% Viognier and 10% Fiano, punches well above its price point.

Decanter (DCT) : 93 Points (2017)
I love this fresh, modern take on an Etna white wine, with its controlled and precise nose of honey hints, white flowers and ripe limes. The palate is invigorating, juicy and lively. Full and rich but bursting with tangy, lime-juicy brightness. Vivacious and delicious.

Planeta Burdese 2018
Planeta Burdese 2018
Planeta
Burdese 2018
WS
91
RP
91
WE
94

Discover the remarkable intensity and complexity of Planeta Burdese, a Sicilian red that beautifully marries the depth of Cabernet Sauvignon with the elegance of Cabernet Franc.

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Planeta Cometa 2022
Planeta Cometa 2022
Planeta
Cometa 2022
WS
92
WE
93
JS
92
Planeta Cometa showcases the extraordinary potential of Fiano in Sicily, offering a complex and harmonious expression of this noble grape variety.
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Planeta Santa Cecilia Noto 2020
Planeta Santa Cecilia Noto 2020
Planeta
Santa Cecilia Noto 2020
RP
93
WE
94
DCT
91
The Planeta Santa Cecilia Noto is a top-tier Sicilian wine, showcasing the elegance and power of Nero d'Avola, with a perfect balance of fruit, spice, and a complex structure.
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Planeta Maroccoli Syrah 2020
Planeta Maroccoli Syrah 2020
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Planeta Maroccoli Syrah is a powerful and imposing Sicilian red crafted from the noble Mediterranean grape Syrah, showcasing rich fruit and spice with great ageing potential.
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Planeta Chardonnay 2023
Planeta Chardonnay 2023
Planeta
Chardonnay 2023
VN
92
JS
92
WE
93
Planeta Chardonnay stands out with its refined Burgundian style, enriched by the unique characteristics of Sicily's climate and soils.
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Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021
Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021
Planeta
Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021
JS
92
WS
92
W&S
91
The Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria is a striking Sicilian red, combining the lush fruitiness of Nero d'Avola and Frappato with a vibrant spice profile, perfect for any occasion.
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Planeta Etna Rosso 2022
Planeta Etna Rosso 2022
Planeta
Etna Rosso 2022
JS
93
RP
92
WE
92
The Planeta Etna Rosso is a remarkable expression of Nerello Mascalese, reflecting the unique terroir of Mount Etna with its rich fruit and complex aromatic profile.
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Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese 2020
Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese 2020
Planeta
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RP
93
WE
94
W&S
94
Discover the unique expression of Mount Etna with the Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese, a wine that captures the essence of volcanic soils with its refined and aromatic profile.
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Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante 2020
Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante 2020
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DCT
91
JS
92
WE
93
The Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante is a fresh, fruity, and mineral-driven white wine, crafted from 100% Carricante grapes grown on the legendary lava flows of Mount Etna.
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Planeta Mamertino 2019
Planeta Mamertino 2019
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RP
92
The Planeta Mamertino revives an ancient Sicilian tradition, offering a captivating blend of Nero d'Avola and Nocera, loved by Julius Caesar himself!
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Planeta Frappato Vittoria 2023
Planeta Frappato Vittoria 2023
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RP
87
The Planeta Frappato Vittoria is an aromatic gem from Sicily, offering a delightful fusion of floral and red fruit notes with a touch of balsamic complexity.
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Planeta Didacus 2021
Planeta Didacus 2021
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93
WE
93
VN
96
The Planeta Didacus represents the pinnacle of Sicilian Chardonnay, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
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Wine regions guide
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