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Etna Bianco
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Classification: DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata- Controlled Denomination of Origin), also in the Superior version
Colour: straw yellow, at times with slightly golden hints
Region of production: Sicily, in particular in the province of Catania
Minimum alcohol content: 11.5°
Grape varieties used: Carricante minimum 60%, Catarratto and other white grape varieties maximum 40% |
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In the uplands surrounding Catania in the Etna area, the volcano's influence has created a micro-climate which is different to that of the rest of Sicily. The plentiful rainfall brings with it a great deal of humidity and temperature variations are great. From the wine-producing point of view, this consents a later and more gradual maturation of the grapes, resulting in wines that are delicately aromatic. Even in 1596, in the "History of Italy's Wines", this particular kind of flavour and scent was attributed to the ashes of the volcano.
Today, those produced in this area are qualified as "Etna" wines and are produced in the Red, Rosé, White and Superior White varieties. The latter was, amongst other things, the first Sicilian table wine to be awarded DOC (Controlled Denomination of Origin) status.
The process for making Etna Bianco involves leaving the wine to ferment at a controlled temperature (18-20°), and then refining it in vats after the harvesting in October. The ageing process generally lasts through to the following spring, when the wine is ready to be bottled and sold.
Etna Bianco has a delicate, fresh, harmonious and dry nose, and is ideal for accompanying appetisers and fried seafood, spaghetti with squid, grilled fish, mussels and all fish-based recipes in general.
Superior Etna Bianco is made using 80% Carricante grapes, and is only produced in the Milo area in the province of Catania. This type of Etna wine is characterised by a straw yellow colour with hints of green, and has a fresh, soft flavour: it reaches a minimum alcohol content of 12°.
The most suitable glass for tasting Etna Bianco and Superior Etna Bianco is a medium-capacity tulip glass.
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