Carricante is native to Sicily and is thought to have been cultivated there for over a thousand years. It’s a normally big part of the Etna Bianco DOC blends, but here it’s wisely separated out as a standalone bottling under the wider Sicilia DOC. It’s quite similar to Riesling in profile, with high natural acidity and apple and citrus aromas and flavors. This bottling is 90% Carricante, with a dose of Riesling making up the remainder of the blend. Grown at a high altitude in volcanic soils, its freshness is undeniable, and it delivers spot-on varietal fruit character wrapped around a stony mineral core. If you are a fan of aged Riesling you may want to add this to your cellar. Near term, it’s a fine friend to seafood or as a solo sipper that will keep the heat at bay.
Planeta, Sicilia DOC (Sicily, Italy) Carricante 2018
By Rich Cook