The Modern Wine guide to Etna Bianco

Embracing Etna’s other side in its youth

In the world of wines, there are few hidden gems as captivating as Etna Bianco. Nestled amidst the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, this unique white wine has been captivating wine enthusiasts in recent years with its distinctive character and exceptional quality. Much like their Rosso cousins, Etna Bianco wines possess a captivating allure that sets them apart and makes them truly amazing. What makes Etna Bianco so exceptional is its unique combination of volcanic terroir, ancient native grapes, and skilled artisanal winemaking.

Nestled amidst the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, this unique white wine has been captivating wine enthusiasts in recent years with its distinctive character and exceptional quality…

A few years ago, there was not much white wine coming from Etna. Most winemakers were devoted to making Etna Rosso and planting just a sliver of white varietals to use in blending. With the increase in thirst for Etna Rosso, a natural thirst for Etna Bianco would soon follow. In this regard, Etna Bianco wines are still in their infancy as wineries figure out the best places to plant Carricante and Cattaratto to create the best expressions. Nonetheless, their endeavors have paid off for all of us, with delicate and elegant wines exploding onto the scene, highlighting again that Etna is becoming one of the finest wine regions in the world.

Ancient grapes and traditional methods help the wines awaken

Etna Bianco primarily showcases two noble grape varieties: Carricante and Catarratto. Carricante, most often the star of the show, contributes elegance and finesse to the wine. It produces wines with refreshing acidity, citrusy notes, and a touch of floral and herbal aromas. On the other hand, Catarratto adds body and structure, complementing Carricante's delicate nature to create beautifully nuanced wines.

Traditionally, these grapes were planted between their red cousins and used to blend into Etna Rosso, a practice that, while technically still allowed, is very rarely used. It was only in the past twenty years that producers began in earnest to start making white wines from these grapes. Many Etna Bianco producers embrace traditional winemaking techniques to preserve the wine's authenticity and express its unique terroir. Minimal intervention during winemaking allows the true character of the grapes and terroir to shine through. As many winemakers would say, Carricante does not need much to express its true beauty.

A white wine shaped by rich volcanic earth

The very essence of Etna Bianco wines lies in the terroir that nurtures its grapes. The vineyards, located on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, boast mineral-rich soils, imparting a distinctively volcanic character to the wines. Wineries have also found that the southern and eastern slopes of Etna, with the breeze drifting in from the Ionian Sea, steeper slopes, and little afternoon sun, are better suited to creating white wines of character and distinction. Etna Bianco wines exhibit a vibrant minerality, reflecting the volcanic origins, while also showcasing a refined elegance, freshness, and a complexity that is derived from the interaction between the grapes, the soil, and the climates. The interplay of altitude, volcanic soil composition, and climatic factors all come together to create a truly unique expression of Etna Bianco, making it a testament to the captivating influence of terroir on wine.

New experiences and a culinary delight

When it comes to the flavor profile, Etna Bianco dances on the palate with grace and allure. The wines typically display vibrant citrus notes, ranging from zesty lemon and lime to juicy grapefruit. They also exhibit delicate floral undertones, such as jasmine or orange blossom, enhancing their aromatic appeal. Etna Bianco's mineral backbone, a hallmark of volcanic soils, adds an exciting layer of complexity, capturing our modern palate’s quest for new and intriguing experiences.

Pairing food with Etna Bianco wines is a delightful culinary adventure. These wines, with their vibrant acidity, delicate aromas, and distinct minerality, offer a versatile and harmonious match for a variety of dishes. When it comes to seafood, Etna Bianco shines with finesse, making it a perfect companion for fresh oysters, grilled fish, or ceviche. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the seafood, while its mineral backbone complements the oceanic flavors. For those craving a vegetarian pairing, Etna Bianco beautifully accompanies dishes like roasted vegetables, herb-infused salads, or creamy risottos. The wine's crispness and layered flavors provide a refreshing contrast and enhance the vegetable nuances. When it comes to poultry or white meat, Etna Bianco's structure and depth come into play, making it an excellent partner for roasted chicken, grilled turkey, or herbed pork tenderloin. The wine's balance between fruit and acidity complements the savory flavors, creating a harmonious pairing. Ultimately, Etna Bianco's versatility allows for a wide range of food pairing options, inviting wine lovers to explore and discover their own perfect matches while enjoying the wine's captivating character.

Embracing Etna Bianco

Etna Bianco wines offer a captivating journey for those who embrace the most refined and elegant wines in the world. The intriguing volcanic terroir, unique ancient grapes, and traditional winemaking methods embody the essence of contemporary taste and style, which no doubt will have timeless appeal. The vibrant flavors, elegance, and versatility of food pairings make them an exciting addition to any wine lover's collection. They will impress at dinner parties and delight on warm summer evenings eating oysters and seafood. Etna Bianco wines are such a subtle luxury that only those familiar with them will know their true depth and show tremendous appreciation for their nuanced elegance.

Some of our favorite wineries that produce exceptional Etna Biancos

Benanti

Benanti makes a few Etna Biancos that will capture your attention. The entry-level Benanti Etna Bianco is a playful, elegant, and perfect introduction to these types of wine. The single vineyard expressions will have you longing for more and reaching for them at every chance you get.

Girolamo Russo

Girolamo Russo is known for two incredible expressions of Etna Bianco, Nerina and San Lorenzo. Both are made predominantly from Carricante, with small amounts of other indigenous white varieties blended in. The wines are racy, fresh, with plenty of structure and liveliness to make you obsessed.

Quantico

Quantico Etna Bianco is an incredible white wine that gives you more than you would ask for or expect. Predominantly Carricante, with a little bit of Cataratto for body and Grillo for stone fruit aromas. A touch of skin contact right at the beginning of fermentation adds another layer of complexity to what is a magnificent wine with a touch of finesse.

Giovani Rosso

The Giovani Rosso Etna Bianco is an intensely aromatic expression packed with citrus notes on the palate. The Etna winery is a side project for the Barolo producer, where Davide Rosso sought out a new and exciting challenge. The result is nothing short of exhilarating.