# Etna Bianco (2022)

- **Producer:** Murgo
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carricante, Catarratto
- **Region:** Sicilia, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, grapefruit, apple, pear, blossom, fennel, yeast, smoke, honey

## About this wine

Murgo is one of the historic pioneers of the Etna wine region, with the Scammacca del Murgo family transforming their traditional agricultural estate into a dedicated winery in 1981. Located on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna at the Tenuta San Michele, the vineyards sit at an altitude of 500 to 550 meters. The unique volcanic soils, combined with the high altitude and significant diurnal temperature shifts, shape the distinctive character of this classic Sicilian white wine.

## Interesting facts

- The Scammacca del Murgo family was among the very first to bottle estate wines under the Etna DOC designation.
- The vineyards are planted on ancient volcanic sands on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna, facing the Ionian Sea.
- Murgo is also highly celebrated for pioneering traditional method sparkling wines on Mount Etna using Nerello Mascalese.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and distinct saline minerality of this volcanic white wine make it an exceptional partner for seafood and shellfish. It cuts through the richness of fried appetizers like arancini or tempura, while its delicate floral and citrus notes complement fresh herbs and light, citrus-dressed dishes without overpowering them.

## Wine making process

The grapes, primarily Carricante and Catarratto, are hand-harvested and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at 15-16°C to preserve the delicate primary aromas. The wine is aged on its fine lees in stainless steel for several months before bottling, enhancing its texture and complexity without the influence of oak.