I Custodi delle Vigne dell'Etna
"Ante" Etna Bianco 2017 ($39)
Nope, the image is not viewable in a mirror! Think ANTE is reverse for ETNA - the volcano of Sicily.
Following his instinct and his innate passion for the wine world, Mario Paoluzi began developing his cellar on Etna in 2007. With the help of the staff at the local wine consortium, he worked actively to conserve the know-how and traditions typical of the rural world. Judging by the results, it was a gamble he won hands down!
Today, the winery is a reference ppint on the Etna wine scene in Sicily. The vineyards are in Contrada Moganazzi at Castiglione di Sicilia, where the modern cellar is also situated. Recent vineyards acquisitions have been made and added 100-year-old vines to the already impressively old vine property
Apple and pear flesh with grapefruit notes prevail in this delicious white. The mouthfeel has lively acidity and alternates delicately salty notes with an almond-edged finish. It's an extremely enjoyable wine, which succeeds in combining quaffability with complexity and that fine terroir the Italians bring to the bottle. Pick up your Sicilian cookbook and run wild. Enjoy!