Sciare dell' Alba Etna Bianco DOC 2020

Wine Type:
Style of Wine:	Light & Crisp
Country of Origin:	Italy
Wine Region:	Sicily
Appellation:	Etna
Grape Varietal:	Catarratto
Bottle Format:	750mL
Case Size:	6 bottles
$276.00 Per Case ($46.00/btl)

Tasting Notes

This new project has roots in Etna, with origins in Franciacorta, and brought to fruition by Elisabetta Abrami. Elisabetta is the owner/winemaker for her eponymous winery in Italy’s Lombardy Region.
   
The winery name is a combination of two words - Sciàra and Alba. Sciàra draws from Arabic etymology of ša'ra - meaning "uncultivated  land" - and Latin flagare - "to burn" - indicating the accumulation of volcanic soils in the vineyards. Alba is the moment when night becomes day (sunrise), and refers to when the sun bathes the Ionian Sea and the vineyards on the eastern side of Mount Etna. Three wines are currently produced, and total production is currently less than 5000 bottles.

Vineyards comprise just a few hectares of old vines - planted to indigenous varieties Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio for red-wine production, and Carricante and Cattarratto for the whites - on the slopes of Sicily’s famous active volcano (located near the ancient port city of Catania) approximately 500 meters above sea level, in Mascali (CT). Soils are of volcanic origin, primarily sandy, and rich in fossils and organic material. Grapes are harvested by hand and yields are low. 

The Bianco blend is 80% Carricante and 20% Catarratto, vinified in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. The wine is then aged in stainless steel tanks, on the lees, for three months then in bottle for one month before release. Alc./vol. 12.5%. Only ~1000 bottles produced. 

Our Tasting note: Pale straw gold colour, with tropical aromas and flavours of apricot and peach with floral/herbal/mineral notes. Light- to medium-bodied, good acidity, and a long, clean finish.

Pairing suggestions: Great aperitif wine, and will pair with grilled seafood, shellfish, Sushi, white meats, pasta with creamy sauces, vegetarian dishes, and medium-aged and soft cheeses. 

Critical Praise