Carricante

Also known as: Catanese Bianco (Sicily)

Carricante is the ancient white grape variety of Mount Etna. On black volcanic rock, at altitudes between 600 and 1000 metres, it produces a wine of saline minerality and vibrant acidity. Almost austere in its youth, it develops unexpected depth over time – notes of honey, roasted almonds, dried herbs. What distinguishes Carricante from other Sicilian white wines is this ability to age without losing its freshness.

I Vigneri di Salvo Foti works with old alberello vines on steep terraces. Tenuta di Castellaro also demonstrates what can emerge from Carricante when one gives the variety time and doesn’t fight against its natural austerity.