Description
Alberto Graci’s grandfather used to grow grapes and make wine in central Sicily. In line with the times, he produced quantity over quality. On his death Alberto returned from his life as investment banker in Milan to take over the vinous reins, but in his way. Alberto sold his grandfather’s land, and bought vineyards on Etna thus returning to his Sicilian roots, but on a part of the island where the sun is tempered by altitude – 600+ metres above sea level (m.a.s.l), the soils are volcanic (obviously!), and there are old, ungrafted vineyards. Alberto with his sister Elena farm their vineyards on the north face of Mt Etna, at Arcuria, Passsopisciaro. Fifteen hectares are planted to Nerello Mascalese and 2.5 to Carricante and Catarratto. Part of the vineyard is ungrafted ‘alberello’ (bush vines) at a total density of 10,000 per hectare. Graci also own an 80 year old vineyard (bush trained) in Contrada Feudo di Mezzo, Passopisciaro at 600 metres above sea level (m.a.s.l) In Contrada Barbabecchi at 1000 – 1100 m.a.s.l. Graci own a 1.5 hectare vineyard planted about 100 years ago which is harvested in November!
The most recent Etna eruption occurred in December 2015, and the threat of a serious eruption requires a certain outlook says Alberto “We are fatalists, we don’t care. It’s normal for us”. It is the complexity of the volcanic soils which contributes much to the unique minerality and elegance of the wines of Etna. ‘Etna is a special place,’ says Graci, who today runs the estate with his sister Elena. ‘We only cultivate traditional varieties indigenous to Mount Etna and aim to respect local traditions as well as the distinct characters of each vintage. The land decides, not us. We believe that only by listening carefully and responding to the expressions of Nature in our territory can great wines be born. Great because they are true.’
A blend of 70 percent Carricante and 30 percent Cataratto. Bright pale straw. Intense minerality and purity on the nose and palate, with hints of pink grapefruit. Complex, long and with great acid balance. From a more solar vintage in 2022 with excellent freshness and acid retention. Delicious!
“The 2022 Etna Bianco fascinates with a unique blend of smoky peat and lime zest with complicating sour melon. It’s soft, soothing and distinctly savoury in style, with masses of saline minerals giving way to young peach nuances. This tapers off a bit short yet clean, with a salty flouish that keeps the mouth watering for more.” Eric Guido, Vinous Media, Sept 2023.
“The Graci 2022 Etna Bianco has a pronounced mineral note that gives it extra sharpness and brightness. Over the years, the proportion of Carricante in the blend has increased. The salty-mineral profile of this grape variety is in the foreground. The wine has a very bright golden colour and is already very drinkable.” Wine Advocate
RRP $59 Our Price $51.99
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