Tenute Bosco, Piano dei Daini, Etna Bianco DOC, Sicily, Italy, 2023

Producer Profile

Sofia Ponzini started Tenute Bosco in 2010 in an attempt to breathe life back into two small vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna, on land reclaimed 300 years ago following the volcano’s last major eruption.

Some of the vines here are over 120 years old, and pre-date phylloxera. There is more living history in the shape of the traditional ‘alberello’ method of training, in which the vines are left free-standing but protected from the wind by dry stone walls. Sofia is intent on reviving the traditions of this land, and also the indigenous Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Carricante grape varieties. Her wines not only have a sense of place, but of history too.

Viticulture

Grown in the traditional alberello trained style at around 7,000 plants per hectare, hand-picked into small crates after the first ten days of October.

Winemaking

The grapes are pressed and then racked off the gross lees by cold stabilisation. The vinification takes place at a controlled temperature of 13 -15 degrees C° for at least 10 days. Ageing in stainless steel vats for at least 4 months on the fine lees.

Tasting Note

Zippy citrus fruit, white peaches and white flowers intermingled by mineral notes. This is really fresh, characterised by a wonderful level of acidity. The finish is sapid and long.

Food Matching

A wonderful appetiser, but excellent with any fish that can support the zesty citrus fruit and acidity.