Planeta Chardonnay 2023

Planeta Chardonnay 2023

 

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Planeta
Chardonnay 2023
  • Vintage : 2023
  • Country : Italy
  • Region : Sicily
  • Subregion :
  • Type : White
  • Style : Creamy Full Bodied White
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 14°
  • Grappes : 100% Chardonnay

Planeta Chardonnay stands out with its refined Burgundian style, enriched by the unique characteristics of Sicily's climate and soils.

Experts Score Vintage
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 92 2022
JS James Suckling 92 2022
WE Wine Enthusiast 93 2021
DCT Decanter 91 2021
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

Planeta Chardonnay is produced in the Menfi DOC region of Sicily, Italy. The vineyards, located in Ulmo and Maroccoli, benefit from unique terroirs and sustainable farming practices. The Ulmo vineyard sits at an altitude of 250 meters, featuring soils of average texture, moderate depth, and abundant structure with pebbles and vegetable components. The Maroccoli vineyard is higher, at 415 meters, with lime-rich soils and a chalky composition that enhances the mineral quality of the wine.

The vineyards are managed under organic agriculture and the SOStain® protocol. This includes ground cover with clover, vetch, yellow mustard, and wild plants to increase soil organic matter and nitrogen content, fostering soil vitality. Plant health is maintained with minimal use of sulphur and copper, while natural methods such as sexual confusion and applications of zeolite and kaolin are used to control pests. Harvesting takes place between August 10th and 31st, ensuring optimal ripeness and health of the grapes.

Winemaking

The winemaking process for Planeta Chardonnay  involves meticulous care from vineyard to bottle. The grapes are handpicked and transported in 16 kg crates to preserve their integrity. After destemming and crushing, the grapes undergo soft pressing and static sedimentation at 6-7°C. The clear juice is then fermented in 225-liter French oak barrels at 17-19°C for 5 to 7 days.

Post-fermentation, the wine matures on its primary lees with regular bâtonnage—weekly for the first five months, then bi-weekly until completion at 11 months. This aging process occurs in 225-liter Allier oak barrels, with 40% new, 30% second usage, and 30% third usage. This precise barrel regimen imparts a balanced complexity and richness to the wine. The final bottling took place in June.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Rich light gold, deep yet transparent.
  • Aroma: An enticing bouquet of ripe yellow peaches, acacia honey, and marzipan, complemented by subtle notes of peat, cereal, and toast.
  • Palate: The wine is both creamy and crunchy, offering a pleasing contrast. It is soft and supported by a refreshing acidity, with a slight mineral touch that harmoniously blends with the ripe fruit flavors and hints of Sicilian almond, candied fruit, orange peel, and anise seed. The finish is powerful and balanced, evoking the soft sea breezes of Menfi.

Did you know?

Planeta Chardonnay, first produced in 1994, has become an icon of Sicilian wine, illustrating the region's ability to produce world-class Chardonnay. The wine reflects the Planeta family's commitment to sustainability and innovation in winemaking, rooted in their long history dating back to the 1600s.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Seared Foie Gras: The richness and acidity of the wine complement the creamy texture and savory flavors of foie gras.
  • Roast Veal with Mushroom Sauce: The wine’s depth and complexity enhance the umami flavors of the veal and mushrooms.
  • Grilled Lobster with Herb Butter: The Chardonnay’s mineral notes and vibrant acidity cut through the richness of the lobster, creating a harmonious pairing.

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​

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 92 Points (2022)
The 2022 Chardonnay entices with a seductive whiff of spicy oak and vanilla bean that blows off to reveal deeper notes of almond custard, Asian pear and sweet smoke. It's silky-smooth, a pure pleasure on the palate, with ripe orchard fruits and salty minerals that add contrast. Brisk acidity maintains fantastic balance as the 2022 tapers off long and spicy, with hints of ground ginger and hazelnut that slowly fade. This will require some cellaring to integrate its oak, but it has the balance necessary for a lovely evolution.

James Suckling (JS) : 92 Points (2022)
Plenty of wood spices, vanilla and praline here with lemon rind and ripe pineapples. Bright and creamy on the palate with a full body and flavorful, zesty finish. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to let the wood settle. Try from 2025.

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 93 Points (2021)
The nose presents a luscious swirl of vanilla and pineapple, with undertones of salted butter emphasizing the succulence, but a whiff of tulips for levity. The pineapple keeps strutting on the palate, but notes of lemon and apple, plus a nuttier saltiness, provide balance through the finish.

Decanter (DCT) : 91 Points (2021)
One of Sicily's most famous white wines, Planeta Chardonnay has been produced in the village of Menfi since 1995. It's modern in style, fermented and aged in French oak, 40% new, for a minimum of 12 months. This latest release has quite tropical notes of pineapple, melon and warm peach stone fruit, white flowers, some juicy citrus and a vanilla spice aspect from the oak. Powerful but with elegance.

Planeta Alastro Bianco 2023
Planeta Alastro Bianco 2023
Planeta
Alastro Bianco 2023
RP
87
VN
91
DCT
93
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.
17,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
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.

25,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
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.
25,90 €
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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.
34,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Maroccoli Syrah 2020
Planeta Maroccoli Syrah 2020
Planeta
Maroccoli Syrah 2020
RP
94
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.
25,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021
Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021
Planeta
Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021
JS
92
W&S
91
WS
92
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.
22,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Etna Rosso 2021
Planeta Etna Rosso 2021
Planeta
Etna Rosso 2021
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.
25,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese 2020
Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese 2020
Planeta
Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese 2020
WE
94
RP
93
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.
28,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante 2020
Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante 2020
Planeta
Eruzione 1614 Carricante 2020
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.
28,00 €
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Planeta Mamertino 2019
Planeta Mamertino 2019
Planeta
Mamertino 2019
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!
23,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Frappato Vittoria 2023
Planeta Frappato Vittoria 2023
Planeta
Frappato Vittoria 2023
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.
17,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Planeta Didacus 2021
Planeta Didacus 2021
Planeta
Didacus 2021
WS
93
WE
93
VN
96
The Planeta Didacus represents the pinnacle of Sicilian Chardonnay, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
92,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
33,50 €
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