Idda - Bianco Sicilia 2023

IDDA is a joint venture between Angelo Gaja and Alberto Graci on Mount Etna that started in 2017. The Graci family is a prominent winemaker in the region. 

The vineyards are located on the southern slope of the volcano, with a wide range of altitudes, exposures and soil types.  Today, the winery owns 50 acres of vineyards at 2,000-2,600 feet above sea level, in the villages of Belpasso and Biancavilla. 

The new winery will be built in Belpasso, ready to welcome its first harvest in 2023. Until then, the wines will continue to be made in Alberto Graci’s facility in Passopisciaro in the north slope. 

“IDDA” means “she” in the Sicilian dialect, which is the term local residents use to refer to the Etna volcano. The wines’ labels are evocative of multiple aspects of the local terrain such as the colors of the lava and of the sea, the tridimensional altitude of the mountain and the terraces of the vineyards. The spiral is an ancient symbol that captures cyclic continuity, expansion and development.  

Whole-bunch cold press fermentation followed by aging in both oak and stainless steel for 6-9 months.

"The 2023 Bianco demands attention with a beguiling bouquet that mixes crushed rocks, sesame seeds and curry leaves with nectarines and lemon zest. This opens with a pretty inner sweetness contrasted by masses of salty minerals and zesty acidity as ripe orchard fruits cascade throughout. The 2023 tapers off dramatically, long and spicy. A sour citrus tinge forces the mouth to salivate as hints of candied lime and a tart Granny Smith apple concentration slowly fade. In a word, fantastic." - 94 Points, Vinous

"A crunchy white with sliced-pear and lemon character, highlighted with green-apple undertones. It’s medium-bodied with a pretty core of fruit and a fresh finish. Drink now." - 92 Points, James Suckling

Producer: Idda

Country: Italy

Region: Sicily

Varietal: Carricante

Appellation: Etna DOC

Vintage: 2023

Size: 750ml