Le Sabbie dell’Etna (2024) - Firriato
Made on the slopes of Etna, this wine captures the essence of the volcanic terroir. Firriato is known for its commitment to sustainability.
Le Sabbie dell’Etna (2024) - Firriato
Type: Vino Bianco
Area: Italy, Sicily, Agro di Trapani
Appellation: Etna Bianco DOC
Grape variety: Carricante
Vintage: 2024
Winery: Firriato
Alcohol: 13%
The appellation: Etna Bianco DOC
Etna Bianco DOC came into being in 1968 as part of the oldest Sicilian appellation, which protects the wines produced on the slopes of Mount Etna. It is a Mediterranean mountain wine, combining altitude and volcanic soil to give rise to whites that are unique in Italy.The production area extends across the Etna municipalities of the provinces of Catania and Messina, with vineyards lying between 400 and 1 000 m above sea level..
Find out more about Etna Bianco DOCWhat to eat with Le Sabbie dell’Etna
Who makes it: Firriato
Firriato is one of the best-known wineries in Sicily, founded in the 80s by Salvatore and Vinzia Di Gaetano. The estate has built its reputation on championing native grape varieties and on the diversity of Sicilian terroirs. With vineyards spread between Trapani, Etna and the Egadi Islands, Firriato manages to express the essence of Sicilian winegrowing, combining tradition and innovation. The estate is also a benchmark for organic viticulture, with certified production and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Find out more about FirriatoThe vine of Le Sabbie dell’Etna
Carricante
Carricante is a native Sicilian white grape variety, grown almost exclusively on the slopes of Etna, where it gives rise to mineral, elegant and long-lived white wines. It is the leading white variety of the Etna Bianco DOC appellation, often vinified as a single variety or with small percentages of Catarratto or Minnella. The name “Carricante” is said to come from the dialect term “caricare” (to load), because of the plant’s high productivity (“loaded with bunches”). Yet when grown with care and at low yields, it gives vibrant, volcanic wines that are deeply expressive of the Etna terroir.
Find out moreLe Sabbie dell’Etna: the Agro di Trapani area
Agro di Trapani
The Agro di Trapani is one of the most important wine areas of Sicily, in the western part of the island. Thanks to its proximity to the sea, its limestone and clay soils and its dry Mediterranean climate, this area has historically been suited to the production of fresh, aromatic whites, structured reds and world-famous fortified wines such as Marsala. Viticulture in the Agro di Trapani stands out for the use of native varieties such as Grillo, Catarratto and Inzolia for the whites, and Nero d'Avola and Perricone for the reds. The region is also renowned for the production of Marsala DOC, a fortified wine with centuries of history.
Find out more about Agro di TrapaniClimate: Mountain-volcanic
Altitude: Mid Altitude (500-800 m above sea level)
Soil: Volcanic
Geographical setting: Volcano and far from the sea
Profile of Le Sabbie dell’Etna
Primary aromas: Citrus, White flowers
Secondary aromas: mineral notes
Tertiary aromas: Mineral notes
Tasting notes: A fresh, mineral white wine, with notes of citrus and white flowers, typical of Etna.
| Sulphites | yes |
| Body | Fresh |
| Acidity | Medium-high |
| Tannin | Absent |
| Sweetness | Dry |
| Finish | Media |
| Colour | Pale straw yellow |
| Clarity | Clear |
Winemaking methods used for Le Sabbie dell’Etna
Stainless steel winemaking for freshness and aromas
Stainless steel winemaking is a modern, versatile technique, particularly prized for producing fresh, aromatic and lively wines. Thanks to the use of stainless steel tanks, fermentation takes place in a neutral, controlled environment, preserving the primary characteristics of the grape variety and of the terroir as fully as possible. This approach makes it possible to obtain wines that clearly express their varietal personality and a pleasant lightness. What is Stainless Steel Winemaking? Stainless steel winemaking involves the use of stainless steel tanks during alcoholic fermentation and, often, during ageing as well. These vessels guarantee a hygienic, controlled environment, free from outside influences that might alter the aromatic profile of the wine. What is more, precise temperature control helps develop fresh, fruity aromas, avoiding oxidation or unwanted fermentations. Advantages of Stainless Steel Winemaking Preserving freshness: the primary aromas of the grape variety remain intact. Temperature control: it allows slow, steady fermentations, bringing out the aromas and the structure. Aromatic purity: stainless steel adds no outside flavours, guaranteeing an authentic product. Stages of Stainless Steel Winemaking 1. Harvest and Pressing The grapes are picked at the right degree of ripeness and gently pressed to obtain a clean, high-quality must. 2. Settling the Must The must is clarified to remove any solid residues, ensuring a clean fermentation. 3. Fermentation in Stainless Steel Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with strict temperature control (generally between 10°C and 18°C for whites and rosés). 4. Stabilisation After fermentation, the wine is left to rest in the tanks to refine and stabilise, before bottling. Characteristics of the Resulting Wines Colour Whites: bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. Rosés: delicate tones of pale pink or salmon. Light reds: pale ruby red with lively transparency. Aromas Fruity: notes of citrus, peach, green apple and berries. Floral: hints of white flowers, violets or dog rose. Mineral: fresh, saline nuances, typical of certain terroirs. Taste Fresh and lively: with balanced acidity and a light body. Harmonious: perfect for drinking young and informally. Grape Varieties Ideal for Stainless Steel Winemaking White Grape Varieties Vermentino: perfect for bringing out freshness and minerality. Sauvignon Blanc: aromatic and vibrant, with citrus and tropical fruit notes. Black Grape Varieties Pinot Nero: ideal for rosés and light, elegant reds. Montepulciano: perfect for fresh, fruity rosés. Why Choose a Wine Made in Stainless Steel? A wine made in stainless steel is the essence of freshness and varietal purity, perfect for anyone looking for intense aromas, liveliness and lightness. Ideal for aperitifs, light dishes and convivial moments, these wines are a true tribute to nature and to the quality of the grapes.
Find out moreAgeing methods used for Le Sabbie dell’Etna
In stainless steel
Ageing in stainless steel is a winemaking practice aimed at preserving the freshness, aromatic integrity and varietal purity of the wine. It is used above all for white, rosé and young red wines, but also for light, easy-drinking reds that do not require maturation in wood. Stainless steel vessels are inert and impermeable to oxygen, so they do not interact with the wine: this makes it possible to bring out the fruity, floral and mineral component of the grape and of the terroir.
Find out moreTime on the lees for Le Sabbie dell’Etna
- No contact with the lees