# Controdanza Planeta (2022)

- **Producer:** Aziende Agricole Planeta s.s.
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nero d'Avola, Merlot
- **Region:** Sicilia, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, jasmine, prune, balsamic, incense, goudron, mediterranean macchia, bay

## About this wine

Controdanza Planeta is a red wine from the Noto DOC appellation in Sicily, produced by Aziende Agricole Planeta s.s. The wine is a blend of Nero d'Avola and Merlot, a combination inspired by the concept of 'country dance,' emphasizing contrast. The vineyard soils are characterized by lime marl, and the grapes are cultivated at altitudes between 40-70 meters above sea level. Planeta adheres to organic agriculture practices and the SOStain® protocol. The 2022 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, leading to concentrated grape flavors and balanced acidity.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Controdanza' evokes a traditional dance of opposition and agreement.
- This wine is a non-conventional blend for Sicily, pairing Nero d'Avola with Merlot.
- Grapes are grown in the 'white lands' of Noto, known for their lime-rich soils.
- Planeta is committed to the SOStain® protocol for sustainable viticulture.

## Food pairing

The wine's balanced tannins and medium+ body provide a good structure to complement the protein in meat dishes. The subtle herbal and balsamic notes in the wine can echo or contrast with herbs and spices used in cooking. Richer flavors in food are balanced by the wine's structure.

## Wine making process

Controdanza Planeta is produced from grapes cultivated in the Noto region of Sicily, on soils composed of lime marl. The wine is a blend of Nero d'Avola and Merlot. Viticultural practices align with organic agriculture and the SOStain® protocol, focusing on soil health and minimal intervention. The 2022 vintage experienced favorable weather, leading to grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity. The wine undergoes wood aging, which is integrated with the fruit profile. It is considered a 'second wine' from Planeta's vineyards, grown in the lower valleys surrounding the Buonivini winery.