2023 Monteleone - Etna Bianco DOC Anthemis (750ml)

Monteleone is a small, family-run winery on Mount Etna led by husband and wife Benedetto and Giulia Monteleone. The couple farms organically on the volcano's slopes, producing wines that reflect the distinct microclimates found across Etna's varied terrain. Their approach favors traditional methods and hands-on attention to a limited number of parcels, allowing each site's character to come through clearly in the finished wines.

Anthemis is crafted from 100% Carricante sourced primarily from a vineyard in Sant'Alfio on Etna's eastern slope, at elevations reaching 900 meters, an area shaped by strong maritime influence from the nearby Ionian Sea. The remaining fruit comes from Contrada Cuba on the volcano's northern face. Grapes are hand-harvested in the cool morning hours, then destemmed and gently pressed before a natural settling period. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel, and the wine ages on fine lees for six months with weekly bâtonnage, followed by several months of bottle refinement before release.

The result is a straw yellow wine with aromas of white blossom and citrus that open into ripe yellow fruit on the palate, balanced by bright acidity and the saline, volcanic minerality typical of Etna's whites. It pairs well with grilled swordfish, fried seafood, or roast chicken.