Sicily
Graci Etna Bianco '21
Alberto Graci has for many years been one of my favorite producers in the Etna region of Sicily. Having just come back from Sicily, a couple weeks ago, with the opportunity to visit with Graci, I can say with certainty that the wines are as good as they have ever been.
Changes are abound at the domaine with a new cellar built during Covid, and lots of new fermentation and aging vessels in the winery. A partnership with Gaja has helped in this, but it is also a result from a long term plan to build the quality of the domaine.
What is most important to note about Graci, is that while there are some fancy new cuvée’s and more expensive wines, the core “everyday” wines are brilliant. Take this Etna Bianco, a blend of 85% Carricante and 15% Catarratto, mainly from the Arcurìa contrada, which lies across the street from the winery. The quality level of this “entry level” wine far exceeds that of most Etna Bianco at any price point.
The 2021 is the best vintage I’ve tried of this wine. Beautiful aromas of apple, lemon zest, and flowers. The wine has great freshness, with pretty citrus notes on the palate and dry, zesty finish.
Changes are abound at the domaine with a new cellar built during Covid, and lots of new fermentation and aging vessels in the winery. A partnership with Gaja has helped in this, but it is also a result from a long term plan to build the quality of the domaine.
What is most important to note about Graci, is that while there are some fancy new cuvée’s and more expensive wines, the core “everyday” wines are brilliant. Take this Etna Bianco, a blend of 85% Carricante and 15% Catarratto, mainly from the Arcurìa contrada, which lies across the street from the winery. The quality level of this “entry level” wine far exceeds that of most Etna Bianco at any price point.
The 2021 is the best vintage I’ve tried of this wine. Beautiful aromas of apple, lemon zest, and flowers. The wine has great freshness, with pretty citrus notes on the palate and dry, zesty finish.
Perman
Italy
Details
| Producer | Graci |