Carricante is a historic white grape native to Mount Etna, Sicily. It is the main grape used in Etna Bianco and Etna Bianco Superiore DOC wines.

Where is the best Carricante grown?

The Milo area on Etna's eastern slope is considered Carricante's most prestigious terroir and the only source of Etna Bianco Superiore DOC.

What does Carricante taste like?

Carricante offers crystalline citrus, green apple, white peach, orange blossom, Mediterranean herbs and volcanic minerality. Aged wines develop honey, almond, petrol and smoky notes.

Is Carricante age-worthy?

Yes, high-quality Carricante can evolve beautifully for 5 to 15 years, gaining complexity while retaining its signature freshness and minerality.

What food pairs with Carricante?

Its high acidity and saline profile make it ideal with seafood, oysters, grilled fish, shellfish, sushi, light pasta, fresh cheeses and vegetable-based Mediterranean dishes.

Journal

Stories from the Volcano

Long-form guides, tasting notes and reflections from the slopes of Mount Etna.

Terraced vineyard contrade on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna at golden hour

What Are the Contrade of Mount Etna?

Discover the contrade of Mount Etna: the unique volcanic vineyard districts that shape the character, style and identity of Etna DOC wines.

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Glass of Carricante white wine with grapes and vineyards on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna

Carricante: The Great Volcanic White Wine of Mount Etna

Discover why Carricante is the queen of Etna's white wines, how the Milo terroir shapes its crystalline minerality, and what makes it one of Italy's most age-worthy whites.

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Ancient Nerello Mascalese vines on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily

Nerello Mascalese: The King of Etna Wines

Discover why Nerello Mascalese is the flagship grape of Etna DOC, how volcanic terroir shapes its character, and why critics compare it to Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo.

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High-altitude vineyards on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily

What Is Etna DOC Wine and Why Is It So Special?

A guide to Etna DOC, the volcanic terroir, native grapes and contrade that make Sicily's Mount Etna one of the world's most exciting wine regions.

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