Pietradolce Etna Bianco DOC 2023
Pietradolce · Pietradolce
Pietradolce's Carricante vines grow at 700 meters on Etna's north face, rooted in millennia of lava flow. Winemaker Michele Faro handles the fruit with restraint — stainless steel only, no malolactic — letting the grape and the volcano speak. The result is one of Italy's most compelling white wines at a price that borders on absurd for this level of quality.
Nose
White flowers and citrus blossom lead, followed by green apple skin and a pronounced mineral note — wet stone and volcanic ash. A subtle hint of almond adds warmth.
Palate
Taut and precise, with bright citrus acidity driving the palate. Green apple and pear flavors are underscored by a saline minerality that speaks directly to the volcanic soils. A faint honeyed richness develops at mid-palate without softening the wine's essential tension.
Finish
Clean and persistent, with lingering citrus, crushed stone, and a faintly bitter almond note.
- Varietal
- Carricante
- Blend
- 100% Carricante
- Vineyards
- North face of Mount Etna, 700m elevation, volcanic soils
- Alcohol
- 12.5%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
- Skin Contact
- No
Food Pairing
The wine's saline minerality and citrus acidity make it a perfect foil for simply grilled Mediterranean sea bass, dressed with Pantelleria capers, extra virgin olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon.
Michele Faro founded Pietradolce in 2005 on the steep northern slopes of Mount Etna, resurrecting pre-phylloxera Carricante vines planted in loose volcanic soils at elevations above 700 meters.
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