Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Sicilia DOC region, particularly the vineyards around Mount Etna, is steeped in volcanic history. The Sciaranuova vineyard, located in Castiglione di Sicilia (CT), lies at an altitude of 840-860 meters above sea level. This vineyard, part of Planeta's Feudo di Mezzo estate, benefits from black lava sands and rich mineral soils, resulting from centuries of volcanic activity. The 1614 eruption, which lasted for ten years, is a legendary event that shaped the terroir, providing an extraordinary environment for growing Nerello Mascalese.

The vineyard is managed according to organic agriculture principles and the SOStain® protocol, ensuring soil vitality through ground cover crops and minimal use of chemicals. This sustainable approach enhances the unique character of the wine.

Winemaking

The vintage began with the hand harvesting of grapes on October 22nd and 23rd. The grapes were picked into small crates, chilled to 10 °C, and then hand-selected. After destemming, fermentation took place in concrete tanks and stainless steel vats at temperatures up to 25-26 °C, with the skins remaining in contact with the wine for 16 to 40 days. The fermentation process was gently managed with manual punch downs to ensure fine extraction.

Following alcoholic fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation in stainless steel. The wine was then matured in 25 hl and 36 hl oak casks for 12 months before bottling in July. The final product is a 100% Nerello Mascalese wine, characterized by its elegance and aromatic intensity.

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: This wine boasts extraordinary aromas of incense of medicinal herbs, hibiscus, and wild fennel derived from the lava sands. The bouquet is luminous and lyrical, reflecting the character and refinement of great mountain red wines.
• Palate: Compact density of tannins, drawn with elegance. The flavors include the sweetness and generosity of wild fruit and currants, mingling with aromas of incense and beeswax, and a faint almost salty flavor that invites further sips.

Did you know?

The name Eruzione 1614 commemorates the legendary eruption of Mount Etna that lasted ten years, the longest ever recorded. The vines for this wine grow on the very lava flow from this eruption, imbuing the wine with a unique connection to the volcano’s dramatic history. This historical link provides not only a unique terroir but also a profound story that enriches the wine's character​​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Game: The robust character of this wine pairs beautifully with game dishes, enhancing their rich and intense flavors.
• Truffles: The aromatic complexity of the wine complements the earthy and luxurious flavors of truffles.
• Rock Fish with Complex Sauces: The wine’s structure and minerality match well with the intricate flavors of rock fish dishes.
• Cheeses and Salumi: Ideal with a selection of aged cheeses and artisanal salumi, bringing out the depth of the wine and the food.

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.

• 

  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​