From the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Al-Cantara 'Occhi di Ciumi' beautifully captures the essence of one of Europe's most distinctive wine regions. Nestled between an active volcano and the Nebrodi Mountains, the 15-hectare Al-Cantara vineyard thrives at 620 metres, where mineral-rich volcanic soils, cool nights, and warm Sicilian days come together to create wines of remarkable character and complexity. The vineyard is managed with respect for the environment, embracing organic and biodynamic principles, and eschewing chemical interventions where possible. The name 'Al-Cantara'-meaning 'bridge' in Arabic-symbolises a profound link between Sicilian terroir, art, and poetry, with each wine inspired by local literary traditions.
Crafted predominantly from Carricante with a touch of Grecanico, and made to accentuate the purity of native grapes and volcanic minerality, this wine spends an extended period on its fine lees, enhancing its texture and complexity. Made without oak to preserve freshness and varietal clarity, Al-Cantara 'Occhi di Ciumi' offers a vivid expression of Etna in every glass.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Clear and bright in the glass, this wine boasts a straw-yellow hue with delicate green reflections, reflecting its youthful vibrancy.
Nose:
Expressive and layered, the bouquet opens with enticing tropical fruit aromas-think subtle notes of pineapple and ripe citrus-intertwined with a captivating core of saline minerality. Underlying spicy hints add intrigue and complexity, evoking the volcanic origins of the terroir.
Palate:
On the palate, 'Occhi di Ciumi' is beautifully fresh and precise, with a lively acidity and an elegant, mineral backbone. Tropical fruit flavours dance gracefully alongside nuanced spice, all finely balanced by a textural richness derived from extended lees ageing. The mouthfeel is both structured and refined, offering depth without sacrificing vibrancy.
Finish:
The finish is notably long and saline, leaving a lingering impression of clean minerality and subtle spice, making this a wine that truly embodies the volcanic soils and unique microclimate of the Etna region.
Al-Cantara 'Occhi di Ciumi' is an exceptional choice for lovers of crisp, mineral-driven white wines and a perfect companion to Mediterranean cuisine, seafood, and fresh salads.
