Planeta Maroccoli Syrah 2021

Region and Vineyards

Maroccoli comes from the Menfi DOC area in southwestern Sicily, from a vineyard in Sambuca di Sicilia at 370 metres above sea level. The site is planted on calcareous soil rich in stones, with little clay and a substantial silty component. This combination, together with altitude, helps give Syrah concentration without sacrificing freshness. The vineyard is trained to spurred cordon at a density of 4,545 vines per hectare, with an average yield of 7.5 tonnes per hectare.

Viticulture follows the SOStain protocol, using cover crops including clover, vetch and yellow mustard to support soil organic matter and microbial life. Sulphur and copper are kept to minimal quantities, while beneficial insects, mating disruption, zeolite, kaolin and plant extracts form part of pest management. In 2021, timely summer rains helped moderate heat, and Planeta reported particularly strong colour and tannin quality in hillside Syrah.

Winemaking

The 2021 Maroccoli is 100% Syrah. Grapes were harvested by hand into 15 kg crates between 28 August and 15 September, then immediately taken to the Ulmo winery for crushing and destemming. Alcoholic fermentation took place in stainless steel for 12 to 14 days, with two brief pump-overs daily. Temperatures rose progressively from 14-15 °C to 20-22 °C and finally 25-27 °C, a measured approach designed to preserve the skins while building complexity.

After fermentation, the wine remained on the skins for a further 18 to 20 days under submerged cap. Malolactic fermentation was completed in stainless steel before 14 months of maturation in French Allier oak barriques: 35% new, 35% second-use and 30% third-use. Bottled in June 2023, the finished wine has 14% alcohol, total acidity of 5.75 g/L and pH 3.38, with a stated aging potential of 7 to 10 years.

Tasting Notes

• Color: An exceptionally deep, almost impenetrable purple-red, immediately signalling the wine's concentration and youthful intensity.
• Aroma: Sweet oriental spices lead into roasted cocoa, mahogany and an intriguing saline, stormy-sea character. Ripe plum emerges with air, adding generous fruit beneath the wine's darker, savoury complexity.
• Palate: Full-bodied and concentrated, with dense yet silky tannins and alcohol that feels soft and well integrated. Pepper, orange preserve and aromatic herbs unfold through the palate, with pepper returning on the persistent, spicy finish.

Did you know?

Maroccoli first appeared in 1999, making the 2021 vintage part of more than two decades of Planeta's work with Syrah from this specific Sicilian hillside. The estate regards Sicily's bright, dry Mediterranean conditions as particularly well suited to the variety.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Marinated grilled lamb chops with mint: The lamb's richness meets the wine's substantial tannins, while charred flavours and fresh mint echo its pepper, herbs and Mediterranean character.
• Eggplant parmigiana with smoked provola: Tomato, roasted eggplant and smoky cheese complement Maroccoli's ripe fruit, cocoa and savoury spice while standing up to its generous structure.
• Slow-braised beef short ribs: The soft, gelatinous texture of braised beef moderates the tannins, while deeply browned meat brings out the wine's plum, spice and roasted nuances.
• Aged Pecorino: The cheese's savoury intensity and saltiness provide a delicious counterpoint to the ripe fruit, supple alcohol and lingering peppery finish.

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​