Wednesday was our longest day as we headed north to Mount Etna. This part of Sicily is unquestionably the most diverse thanks to the volcanic soils and myriad of soils that have been categorised into 142 contrade – effectively a geological map that defines the subtle differences in characteristics around the mountain. We were heading for Planeta winery at their Sciaranuova site on Mount Etna.
This is a truly stunning place where they have maintained some beautiful historic buildings and an old press with underground cement tanks.
Elena hosted our visit and she was comprehensive and entertaining in the detail about the estate as we took a walk in the Carricante and Nerello Mascalese vines and saw at first hand the volcanic rocks. The winery is actually built on a 15th century lava flow.
We then proceeded with a fabulous tasting. Three vintages of their Eruzione 1614 – 90% Carricante and 10% Riesling – absolutely fascinating to see the evolution and minerality with each vintage. This was followed by three vintages of their Nerello Mascalese which were all absolutely delicious. Both these grapes are not particularly well known so added another dimension to the tour.
A Metodo Classico heralded the start of lunch and we washed it all down with a superb Cerasuolo di Vittoria.
Lunch was another wonderful mix of antipasti, cured meats, an aubergine pasta and a fruit tart.
A super day on Etna!
