Stirm 'Kick-On Vineyard' Eoolian Riesling 2023

Winemaking

Stirm approaches winemaking with respect for the volcanic terroir of the Eolian Islands, allowing the unique minerality and maritime influence of these ancient lava fields to express themselves cleanly in the glass. The philosophy here is one of restraint and precision—letting the vineyard speak rather than imposing oak or heavy manipulation.

Tasting Notes

This is a strikingly mineral Riesling that opens with bright citrus and stone fruit aromatics—lemon zest and white peach jumping from the glass. On the palate, you'll find crisp green apple and white peach flavors supported by a distinctive volcanic salinity that feels like sea spray on your tongue. The finish is clean and zesty, with that mineral tension lingering pleasantly, making this a wine that refreshes rather than weighs.

Producer

Stirm operates on the Eolian Islands, a small and emerging wine region built on the volcanic foundations of this Mediterranean archipelago. The estate works with the unique growing conditions of this remote terroir, where maritime winds and volcanic soils create distinctive and challenging conditions that reward careful farming and winemaking.

Terroir

The Eolian Islands sit off the coast of Sicily, where ancient volcanic activity has left behind mineral-rich soils that impart a saline quality to the wines. The maritime climate brings cooling breezes that preserve acidity and freshness, while the volcanic substrate—predominantly composed of lava and pumice—adds the distinctive minerality that defines wines from this appellation.

Food Pairings

Try this with grilled branzino drizzled with lemon and olive oil, or with a simple pasta alle vongole where the wine's salinity will echo the brininess of the clams. For something more casual, it's lovely with fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes, or even a seafood crudo where the wine's crisp minerality cuts through the richness of raw fish.