Sicilia Menfi DOC Chardonnay 2023 Planeta

What kind of wine it is

Planeta's Chardonnay is a medium to full-bodied white made from Chardonnay grapes. It features a fine and balanced aromatic profile, with ripe fruit and integrated freshness. Fermentation takes place in barrique at a controlled temperature, followed by about twelve months of aging in French oak barrels. This process grants body, complexity and a pleasant creaminess, while the lively acidity remains evident, supporting both drinkability and evolution.

Where it comes from

The grapes come from the Ulmo and Maroccoli vineyards in the Sambuca di Sicilia area, in the province of Agrigento. The Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers moderated by the sea, encourages even ripening. Alluvial and sandy soils with calcareous and clayey elements offer the wine structure and freshness. Altitudes between 100 and 150 meters ensure night-time temperature shifts that enhance elegance and aromatic expression.

How it is made

Harvesting is carried out by hand between the second and third decade of September, with careful selection of the grape clusters. After destemming and gentle pressing, the must is cooled and transferred to French oak barriques for fermentation at a controlled temperature. Malolactic fermentation and aging for about twelve months in second passage barrels, with regular bâtonnage, enrich the structure and complexity; the wine is then lightly filtered before bottling.

Tasting notes

It displays a bright golden yellow color with greenish highlights. The bouquet is intense and layered, with notes of apricot, peach, Golden apple, and fig, complemented by hints of honey and pistachio. On the palate it shows a rich and creamy texture, supported by vibrant acidity that ensures smoothness. The finish is persistent, with echoes of sweet citrus and light vanilla notes, balancing fruit and wood.

Food pairings

This Chardonnay from Planeta pairs well with fish dishes and shellfish, and is excellent with shrimp carpaccio and linguine with clams. It also goes with white meats accompanied by light sauces, as well as fish soups from the Sicilian tradition, such as that from Sciacca. Outstanding with pasta with sardines and a seafood risotto, where the wine's aromatic complexity complements the variety of marine flavors.

When to serve it

This wine is enjoyable young or after a few years of bottle aging. Thanks to barrel maturation and good acidity, it retains freshness and aromatic intensity for three to four years. The ideal time for consumption is between the second and fourth year; serve at a temperature between 10 and 12 °C to best appreciate its richness and balance.