Vini di Luca Virgola Bianco Terre Siciliane IGT-C339

Luca Zumbo's tiny vineyard of Carricante is planted just outside the DOC of Etna, near Lingualossa. These are young vines, but they seem to have already hit their stride, no doubt helped along by the altitude (650 metres) and the impoverished volcanic soils. The nose opens with candied lemon, lime juice, acacia, green apple and a smoky note (aided by the power of suggestion!). There is a languid generosity from lees contact that works with the fresh acidity to produce a truly jaw-dropping finish. As always, low yields are key to Luca's wines. Let it age a few years (Etna whites have a phenomenal capacity to develop in bottle), and you'll be rewarded with notes of ginger, orange peel, mimosa and acacia.

2027-2031 – MP.