Planeta Maroccoli Syrah 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Menfi DOC region, home to Planeta’s Maroccoli vineyard, spans a diverse landscape from the sea to the hills, reaching an altitude of 370 meters above sea level. The Maroccoli vineyard, located near Sambuca di Sicilia (AG), is celebrated for its limestone-rich soils with abundant lime areas and a slightly chalky structure. These soils, combined with the bright, dry Sicilian climate, create an ideal environment for cultivating Syrah.

Planeta’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in their adherence to the SOStain® protocol. The vineyard employs organic practices such as ground cover with clover, vetch, yellow mustard, and wild plants to enhance soil vitality. Plant health is maintained with minimal use of sulfur and copper, alongside natural defenses like zeolite, kaolin, and vegetable extracts.

Winemaking

The vintage began with the hand harvesting of Syrah grapes from August 28th to September 17th. The grapes were gathered into small crates, then pressed and destemmed upon arrival at the winery. Fermentation took place in stainless steel vats, lasting 12-14 days, with temperatures controlled initially at 14-15 °C, then 20-22 °C, and finally 25-27 °C. This careful temperature management ensures optimal extraction of flavors and aromas.

After fermentation, the wine underwent a maceration period of 18-20 days with the skins in contact with the wine, followed by malolactic fermentation in steel. The wine was then aged for 14 months in French oak barriques (35% new, 35% second usage, and 30% third usage) before being bottled in July. The final product is a 100% Syrah wine, renowned for its power and depth.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Impenetrable purple-red.
• Aroma: Sweet oriental spices, a faint reminder of roasted cocoa, mahogany, and stormy sea, followed by fruity scents of ripe plum.
• Palate: Thick and silky tannins, well-integrated alcohol, with variegated flavors of pepper, orange jam, and a finish of herbs and pepper.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Marinated and Grilled Lamb Cutlets: The rich, spicy profile of the Syrah complements the savory flavors of lamb, especially when paired with mint.
• Parmesan Cheese: The wine's complex flavors enhance the nutty and salty characteristics of aged Parmesan.
• Smoked Provola: The smokiness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the Syrah’s depth and spiciness.

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​