Passopisciaro Passobianco Terre Siciliane IGP 2024

Passobianco is an exceptional white wine from the northern side of Etna, crafted from 100% Chardonnay. While Etna is typically associated with Carricante, Andrea Franchetti chose instead to work with Chardonnay, inspired by the great white wines from Burgundy.

The grapes come from the high-altitude contradas of Guardiola and Montedolce, where Chardonnay grows on steep terraces at 850-950 meters above sea level. Here, the vines stand in pure volcanic soil of lava dust and stones, rich in minerals. The combination of altitude, cooler climate, and volcanic subsoil gives the Chardonnay a unique character with elegance, freshness, and pronounced minerality.

In the glass, it appears elegant and precise. The aroma is open and complex with floral and fruity notes as well as fine hints of pastry. The taste combines fresh acidity and mineral nerve with a beautiful fullness and balance. A refined yet generous white wine, where Chardonnay receives a distinct Etna imprint.

In the cellar, 10% of the grapes undergo cold maceration to enhance the aromas, while the rest are pressed as whole clusters to preserve freshness and minerality. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation in cement. The wine then ages on the lees, 90% in cement tanks and 10% in large oak barrels, without bâtonnage.

2024 presented a warm and dry summer, but the grapes retained a beautiful freshness and acidity. Harvest began as early as August 19 and continued until September 11, with individual plots harvested according to their individual ripening.

Passobianco is a wine for those who want to experience a different and ambitious side of Etna. Chardonnay with volcanic minerality, the freshness of altitude, and plenty of personality.