What kind of wine is Contessa Entellina Chardonnay DOC 'Chiarandà' 2022 - Donnafugata

The Contessa Entellina Chardonnay DOC 'Chiarandà' 2022 - Donnafugata is an elegant and structured Sicilian white wine, an emblem of the quality that this historic winery can express in the Contessa Entellina DOC, in the heart of Western Sicily. Produced from Chardonnay grapes grown on gentle, breezy hills, it tells the story of a territory with a Mediterranean climate and mineral-rich soils. Its style is both fresh and complex: a white wine with a sunny character, yet balanced by delicate acidity and a pleasant minerality that make it persistent and refined.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage in Contessa Entellina was characterized by balanced climatic conditions. Mild temperatures and the absence of excessive heat favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The temperature excursions between day and night, typical of the hilly area, contributed to enhancing the varietal aromas of Chardonnay and maintaining a lively acidic freshness, essential for defining finesse and elegance in the glass.

Winemaking and aging

The winemaking of Contessa Entellina Chardonnay DOC 'Chiarandà' 2022 - Donnafugata combines tradition and precision. After soft pressing, fermentation takes place in stainless steel at a controlled temperature, to preserve aromas and fragrance. A portion of the wine ages in French oak barriques and tonneaux for several months, enriching itself with complex notes and greater softness. Subsequently, a period of rest in the bottle completes the integration between the varietal freshness and the fine roundness imparted by the wood.

Tasting notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a brilliant straw yellow color, with golden reflections that anticipate the wine's richness.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and enveloping: aromas of ripe fruit such as peach and melon, citrus hints, and delicate floral notes are recognizable. The passage in wood imparts nuances of vanilla, honey, and dried fruit that blend with a surprising mineral imprint.

Palate

On tasting, the Contessa Entellina Chardonnay DOC 'Chiarandà' 2022 - Donnafugata offers a significant yet always harmonious structure. The sip is fresh and savory, supported by good acidity that balances the softness and gives momentum. The finish is long, elegant, and slightly citrusy, with a pleasant mineral sensation.

What dishes to pair with Contessa Entellina Chardonnay DOC 'Chiarandà' 2022 - Donnafugata

This Sicilian Chardonnay is extremely versatile and pairs well with elaborate fish dishes and white meats. Excellent with:

• raw seafood and tuna tartare
• seafood risottos or with seasonal vegetables
• baked or grilled fish
• poultry and rabbit in light preparations
• semi-hard or delicate blue cheeses

An ideal wine also for an elegant dinner or to surprise friends with a rich yet balanced white.

Storage and aging: how to store Contessa Entellina Chardonnay DOC 'Chiarandà' 2022 - Donnafugata wine

The Chiarandà 2022 is a white wine that, while enjoyable now, can evolve pleasantly for several years. It is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place at a constant temperature, preferably around 12°C, with the bottle laid horizontally to keep the cork moist. If well stored, it can offer satisfaction for 2-3 years, developing more complex aromatic nuances over time. However, its best expression remains in the first years after the vintage, when freshness and fragrance are at their peak.