The 2021 Etna Bianco is mostly Carricante with smaller parts Catarratto, Grecanico and Insolia in the blend. The first vintage made back in 2005 was actually a field blend, and the wine became part of the Etna Bianco appellation in 2006. Acreage to Carricante has exploded on Etna these past 10 years. Back then, it represented just 3% of vineyard plantings, Marc De Grazia tells me. "Sicily is a seafood island, so it makes sense," he adds. This expression is clear and tonic with citrusy freshness and lingering mineral tones. Go ahead, try it with the fresh catch of the day.

The 2020 Etna Bianco is an easy blend of Carricante, Catarratto, Grecanico and Minnella, although the lion's share of the wine is the mighty Carricante grape. Of these varieties, Carricante lends a special sense of mineral sharpness and definition that comes through nicely in this vintage. The wine also offers grassy notes and fresh citrus that are characteristic of the other grapes. The overall effect is accessible and quick-to-drink with a plate of fried sardines.