Planeta Cometa 2022

Region and Vineyards

Planeta Cometa hails from the Menfi DOC region, situated in Sicily, Italy. The vineyards are nestled within the Menfi hills, covering an extensive area of 160 hectares. This region is known for its lime-chalk soils, which significantly enhance the aromatic profile of the wines produced here. The vineyards are located at altitudes ranging from 35 to 75 meters above sea level, benefiting from the Mediterranean climate that favors the cultivation of high-quality grapes.

The Gurra and Dispensa vineyards, where the Fiano for Cometa is grown, are cultivated according to organic principles and the SOStain® protocol. This sustainable approach includes practices such as ground cover with beans and vetch to increase soil vitality, minimal use of sulphur and copper, and natural pest deterrents like sexual confusion and zeolite applications. These methods ensure the production of healthy, expressive grapes while maintaining environmental balance.

Winemaking

This vintage of Planeta Cometa is made exclusively from 100% Fiano grapes. Harvesting took place from August 30th to early September. The grapes are handpicked and stored in 15 kg crates, followed by immediate refrigeration at 12-13°C to preserve their freshness. After destemming and crushing, the grapes undergo soft pressing and static sedimentation at 6-7°C.

Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks for 90% of the must and in 36 hl oak barrels for the remaining 10%, at controlled temperatures of 14-15°C over 12-14 days. Post-fermentation, the wine is left on its primary lees with regular stirring for about four months, followed by aging on finer lees. This process imparts additional complexity and texture to the wine. The final blend is matured in stainless steel and oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright straw yellow with greenish hues.
• Aroma: Intense aromas of chamomile, mandarin, mango, and pomelo, interlaced with subtle hints of wildflowers and herbs.
• Palate: Rich and full-bodied, displaying flavors of citrus, tropical fruits, and honey, balanced by a vibrant acidity and a long, mineral-driven finish.

Did you know?

Planeta Cometa is named after the comet, symbolizing the wine's unique and exceptional nature. The label design features a comet, reflecting the inspiration behind the name and the winery's dedication to creating wines that are out of this world.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Sicilian Caponata: The wine’s vibrant acidity and fruitiness complement the sweet and sour flavors of this classic Sicilian dish.
• Grilled Sea Bass with Lemon and Herbs: The freshness and minerality of Planeta Cometa enhance the delicate flavors of the fish and the aromatic herbs.
• Risotto al Limone: The wine's citrus notes mirror the lemon in the risotto, while its rich body balances the creamy texture of the dish.

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​