Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2023

Region and Vineyards

The Vittoria region, situated between the Iblean mountains and the sea, is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and exceptional terroir. The Dorilli estate and Mogli vineyards, where the Cerasuolo di Vittoria is cultivated, are characterized by their sandy soils—composed predominantly of loose red sand with a tufa layer about 90 cm deep. This soil composition is crucial for maintaining the water balance of the vines, especially given the 70-80 meters above sea level altitude.

The unique terroir of Vittoria, combined with high summer temperatures and low rainfall, creates an ideal environment for the indigenous grape varieties Nero d'Avola and Frappato.

The name "Cerasuolo" is derived from the Sicilian word for cherry, “cerasa”, reflecting the cherry-like color and flavors typical of this wine.

Winemaking

This vintage began with the careful harvesting of grapes between September 17th and 19th. The grapes were collected by hand and machine, then transported in small trolleys to the winery. Once at the winery, they were pressed and destemmed, followed by fermentation in stainless steel vats of 114 and 170 hectoliters. Fermentation lasted for 7-8 days at temperatures initially held around 14-15 °C, rising to 24-25 °C towards the end.

After fermentation, the skins remained in contact with the wine for an additional 13-15 days. The malolactic fermentation occurred in the same vats, and the wine began its maturation process in stainless steel vats, with bottling taking place in June. The final blend consists of 60% Nero d'Avola and 40% Frappato, producing a balanced and expressive wine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright ruby red, reflecting its youthful vibrancy.
• Aroma: A distinctive nose with a cornucopia of red and wild fruits such as wood strawberries, mulberry, and pomegranate, complemented by pleasant, almost oriental spice notes of sandalwood, coriander, and Sichuan pepper.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine reflects the olfactory perceptions, with flavors of black pepper mixed with carob and sweet cherries. It offers a lively palate with a full-bodied, rounded finish and notes of mulberry.

Did you know?

Planeta's winemaking journey began in the mid-1980s on their family estate at Sambuca di Sicilia, which has been in the family since the 1600s. Today, Planeta spans six distinct wine estates across Sicily, each carefully cultivated to best complement the local terroir. The 2021 vintage was particularly significant as it was the first year of organic certification for Planeta after more than a decade of sustainable agriculture​​​​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Tuna: In season, the wine's complexity and spice notes complement the rich flavors of grilled tuna.
• White Meat: Ideal with various preparations of white meat, enhancing the dish with its balanced fruit and spice profile.
• Tomato-Based Dishes: Its harmony with tomato-based dishes is surprising, making it a great match for recipes featuring rich tomato sauces.
• Pizza: The wine pairs beautifully with pizza, offering a versatile and delightful experience.

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​