Pietradolce 2023 Etna Bianco

The Pietradolce 2023 Etna Bianco is a captivating, volcanic white from Sicily made entirely from the indigenous Carricante grape, grown on the steep, mineral‑rich slopes (700–800 m) of Mount Etna. It’s a signature expression showing both elegance and the raw essence of Etna’s terroir.

🍋 Appearance & Nose

• Color: Bright straw with greenish highlights.

• Aromas: A vibrant bouquet of salted lemon peel, crushed stone/mineral, white flowers, almond, wet stone, sea mist, green apple, fennel, dried flowers, and a subtle herbal touch.

🧴 Palate & Structure

• Acidity & Texture: Crisp, firm, and "wickedly fresh" with racy acidity and a silky-enveloping texture.

• Flavors: Tart citrus (lemon, green melon), green apple, kiwi, mint, poached apricot, grainy pear, lemon thyme, beeswax – all wrapped in a pronounced saline-mineral tension.

• Finish: Persistent, savory, mineral-driven, with citrus brightness and refined complexity.

💯 Scores & Recognition

• Vinous (AG): 91 pts – celebrating its "burst of crushed stones" and tension.

• Wine Spectator: 91 pts – highlights chamomile, cumin, apricot, pear, beeswax and a well-cut acidity.

• James Suckling: ~90–93 pts – noted for sliced apple, flower, flint aromas, bright finish.

• Wine Access: Praises its richness, briskness, and soulful mineral energy; recommends drinking now through 2030.

• Falstaff: Describes it as elegant with notes of peach, melon, lime blossom and white pepper, and finesse on the palate.

🍽️ Food Pairing & Drinkability

Pairs beautifully with seafood (oysters, shellfish, grilled fish), fresh cheeses, risotto, grilled vegetables, sushi, and lightly spiced fare. It’s best served chilled (6–12 °C) and enjoyed now through 2030.

🗓️ Bottom Line

Pietradolce’s 2023 Etna Bianco is a stunning, terroir-driven white—combining volcanic minerality, lively acidity, and layered fruit and floral tones. It’s an exceptional value for lovers of mineral whites, offering both immediate appeal and cellar-worthy structure. Ideal for fans of Chablis-style wines with Mediterranean flair.