What kind of wine is Etna Bianco DOC 'Contrada Monte San Nicolò' 2024 - Nicosia

The Etna Bianco DOC “Contrada Monte San Nicolò” 2024 - Nicosia is an elegant and mineral white wine, an authentic symbol of Etnean viticulture. It is made from Carricante and Minnella grapes, two native varieties that have found their ideal environment on Mount Etna for centuries. The vineyards of Contrada Monte San Nicolò are located on the south-eastern slope of the volcano, between 550 and 600 meters above sea level, where the cool climate and sandy volcanic soil rich in minerals contribute to a wine with a vibrant, savory, and aromatic profile. It is a modern white wine, yet deeply rooted in Sicilian tradition, perfect for those seeking a fresh, fine wine with a strong territorial character.

Vintage Details

The climatic trend of 2024 on Etna was balanced, with a mild spring and a breezy, not excessively hot summer. Temperature variations between day and night favored a slow and regular ripening of the grapes, preserving acidity and aromas. This resulted in a wine with a fresh and linear profile, with natural aromatic complexity and great tasting purity.

Winemaking and Aging

The grapes are harvested manually and vinified separately. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures to preserve the floral and fruity notes. After fermentation, the wine remains on the fine lees (microscopic yeast particles that enrich structure and aromas) for a few weeks, with periodic bâtonnage, which is the stirring of the wine to maintain its complexity and softness. This is followed by aging for about 3-4 months in the bottle, which helps integrate aromas and freshness without losing the typical vitality of Etnean wine.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, Etna Bianco DOC “Contrada Monte San Nicolò” 2024 - Nicosia presents a beautiful brilliant straw yellow with greenish reflections, a clear sign of its youth and vitality.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses delicate but persistent aromas: white flowers, citrus, Mediterranean herbs, and a characteristic mineral note reminiscent of lava rock and sea breeze. It is a fresh and refined bouquet that invites tasting.

Taste

On the palate, it is fresh, savory, and harmonious. The well-balanced acidity and volcanic minerality provide a lively and dynamic sip, while the finish is pleasantly citrusy, clean, and long. It is a wine that combines elegance and drinkability, ideal for those who love whites with a decided but not aggressive character.

What dishes to pair with Etna Bianco DOC 'Contrada Monte San Nicolò' 2024 - Nicosia

This Etna Bianco pairs perfectly with seafood cuisine and light dishes of Mediterranean tradition. Excellent with:

• Raw fish and tartares of amberjack or tuna;
• Pasta dishes with shellfish, such as linguine with shrimp or lemon and scampi risotto;
• Baked, steamed, or grilled fish main courses;
• Grilled vegetables and fresh cheeses.

Its freshness and savoriness also make it perfect as a sophisticated aperitif, accompanied by seafood appetizers or finger food.

Storage and aging: how to store Etna Bianco DOC 'Contrada Monte San Nicolò' 2024 - Nicosia wine

Etna Bianco DOC “Contrada Monte San Nicolò” 2024 - Nicosia is a delicate wine, designed to be enjoyed in its freshness and youthful fragrance. It is recommended to store it in a cool place, away from light, with a constant temperature around 12-14°C and the bottle placed horizontally. It can evolve positively for 2-3 years, developing more complex and softer nuances, but its best character remains in the first two years, when it best expresses vitality, freshness, and volcanic minerality.