Barone di Villagrande Etna Bianco Superiore '23

Spanning three centuries, Barone di Villagrande’s history is among the oldest of all Etna producers, and it is carried on today by Marco Nicolosi, the tenth generation in charge of the estate and his wife, Barbara. The family settled in Milo, on the east side of Mount Etna, and began working the volcanic land that it owns and cultivates today.
 
The estate is located at 700 meters in elevation, and Milo is more influenced by the Mediterranean than other areas of Etna DOC are, with the vines receiving a breeze consistently, which reduces the pressures of humidity and mildew. The wide diurnal shifts from cold mountain air help keep the alcohol levels low while preserving acidity and elegance in the grapes. The microclimate, with oak and chestnut groves surrounding the vineyards, is particularly suitable for vine growth and sustainable viticulture. The family has practiced organic viticulture since 1989. The vines they cultivate include Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and Carricante, which are ancient grapes native to Mount Etna. The approach in the cellar is minimal intervention, with the goal of allowing the terroir of Milo, its volcanic soil and climate, to define the wines.

The Etna Bianco is from Milo Contrada Villagrande, with southeastern exposure. A blend of 90% Carricante and 10% native Etna vines, the wine is fermented in stainless steel, with bottling 10 months after the harvest.

The wine shows notes of green apple, white peach, citrus zest, and flowers, with juicy acidity and a dry, zesty, saline finish. Pair it with all sorts of shellfish, swordfish with tomatoes and olives, anancini, or grilled vegetables with an herb vinaigrette.