Etna Bianco 2022

ETNA
Denominazione di Origine Controllata
GRAPE VARIETY
Carricante 100%
TASTING NOTES
The Carricante grape variety is indigenous to Sicily and is commonly found on the slopes of Mount Etna. This grape is renowned for its well-balanced acidity, which adds freshness to the wines it produces. It is also characterised by its aromas of citrus fruits, white flowers, herbs, and minerals, with a hint of saltiness. Despite its lively acidity, Carricante wines have an elegant and delicate structure with a light to medium body. The Carricante grapes used in Tenute Ballasanti's production are grown in the Mascali region at an altitude of approximately 800 metres. The volcanic soil in this area is permeable and rich in potassium and iron, but poor in nitrogen and assimilable phosphorous. The grapes are harvested when fully ripe in the last ten days of October, and the picking is done by hand in baskets. After harvesting, the grapes are taken to the cellar for vinification. The grapes are destemmed, gently pressed, and the resulting must is transferred to temperature-controlled tanks for fermentation at 13/15° C. The wine then matures sur lie for approximately 60 to 90 days, with weekly bâtonnage. During the winter, the wine stabilises and clarifies naturally through sedimentation. It is then decanted at the end of winter and bottled in the spring following the harvest. The resulting wine displays a straw-coloured hue with brilliant green hues. The nose is delicately balsamic with floral notes and fresh hay, and an iron and mineral finish. The taste is generous, savoury and enveloping, opening in fresh fruit and ending with a typically mineral note. Etna's Carricante wines are prized for their freshness, complexity and uniqueness, reflecting the region's unique volcanic terroir.