Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Sicilia DOC region, particularly the vineyards surrounding Mount Etna, is marked by its historic eruptions that have shaped the landscape. The Sciaranuova vineyard, located in Castiglione di Sicilia (CT), sits at an altitude of 815-860 meters above sea level. This vineyard, part of Planeta's Feudo di Mezzo estate, benefits from black lava sands and soils rich in minerals, a direct result of the long-lasting eruption of 1614 which halted at the vineyard's border.

The vineyard is managed according to organic agriculture principles and the SOStain® protocol. Ground cover of wildflowers increases the organic content of the soil, enhancing its vitality. Plant health is maintained with minimal use of sulfur and copper, and natural defenses like zeolite, kaolin, and vegetable extracts are used to protect against pests.

Winemaking

The vintage began with the hand harvesting of Carricante grapes from October 16th to 19th. The grapes were collected into crates, immediately refrigerated to 8 °C, and then hand-selected. After a light destemming and gentle pressing, the must was decanted and fermented in stainless steel tanks at temperatures between 10 and 18 °C. The wine remained on the fine lees with continual stirring until August, enhancing its complexity and depth.

The wine was matured in stainless steel and bottled in September. The final product is a 100% Carricante wine, known for its fresh, fruity, and mineral style, with an excellent potential for aging, ranging from 7 to 10 years.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Very faint golden color.
• Aroma: Explosive aromas of ripe fruit and an aromatic load of white flowers that transport the drinker to the slopes of the volcano.
• Palate: Combines softness and boldness of taste with a rich drinkability, featuring the authentic fruitiness of lemon peel and green apple, linked to a fascinating minerality that prolongs the finish.

Did you know?

The name Eruzione 1614 commemorates the longest recorded eruption of Mount Etna, which lasted ten years and stopped at the border of the Sciaranuova vineyard. This historical event not only shaped the unique terroir of the vineyard but also inspired the name of this exceptional wine, highlighting its deep connection to the volcanic landscape of Etna​​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Fish-Based Dishes: An extraordinary companion to fish-based dishes with a certain oiliness, making it ideal for any gastronomic hopes entertained beside the sea.
• Shellfish: Complements the delicate flavors of shellfish, enhancing their natural sweetness with its minerality.
• Light Pasta Dishes: Pairs well with light pasta dishes, especially those with lemon and herb-based sauces.
• Soft Cheeses: Matches beautifully with soft cheeses, balancing their creaminess with its fresh acidity.

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​