Ciuri Bianco (2022)

About this wine

Ciuri Bianco is a unique white wine crafted from 100% Nerello Mascalese, a red grape variety native to Sicily, vinified without skin contact to produce a white wine. This process results in a light straw yellow color with brilliant reflections. On the nose, it offers fresh and fragrant aromas of tropical fruits, complemented by subtle hints of rosemary. The palate is well-balanced, showcasing vibrant acidity and a pronounced minerality, which is characteristic of the volcanic soils of Mount Etna. The wine's refreshing profile and unique origin make it a noteworthy expression of Sicilian viticulture.

About the grape

Nerello Mascalese is a red grape variety native to Sicily, particularly thriving on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna. Traditionally used to produce red wines, its cultivation dates back to at least the 18th century. In the production of the 2022 Terrazze dell'Etna Ciuri Bianco, winemakers employed a unique technique by vinifying these red grapes as a white wine. This process involves immediate separation of the must from the skins through soft pressing, yielding a white wine that captures the grape's distinctive characteristics while offering a fresh and mineral profile.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Ciuri Bianco is crafted from 100% Nerello Mascalese, a red grape variety indigenous to Sicily, vinified as a white wine.
• ⛰️ The vineyards are situated on the northwestern slopes of Mount Etna, at altitudes between 700 and 950 meters above sea level, contributing to the wine's unique character.
• 🌋 The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, imparts a distinctive minerality to the wine, reflecting the terroir of Mount Etna.
• 🍷 The wine undergoes batonage on noble lees in steel tanks for at least 8 months, followed by a minimum of 6 months of bottle aging, enhancing its complexity and structure.
• 🌿 Ciuri Bianco exhibits fresh and vibrant aromas with notes of tropical fruit and hints of rosemary, leading to a savory and fresh palate with a pleasant mineral finish.

Palate profile

Producer

Terrazze dell'Etna, established in 2008 by the Bevilacqua family, is situated on the northwestern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy. The winery spans approximately 40 hectares, encompassing vineyards, olive groves, and chestnut woods, with elevations ranging from 600 to 950 meters above sea level. The estate is renowned for restoring ancient stone terraces and a historic palmento (wine press), reflecting a deep commitment to preserving the region's rich viticultural heritage. Emphasizing traditional methods, all vineyard work is performed manually, and the winery produces a variety of wines, including those from indigenous grape varieties like Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Notably, Terrazze dell'Etna has ventured into producing Metodo Classico sparkling wines, showcasing the versatility of the Etna terroir.