Eruzione 1614 Carricante

The climatic conditions prevailing during the 2010 harvest were particularly favourable. In 2009 the autumn finished with abundant rainfall, ideal for setting the vines to rest. The winter had normal temperatures and not too much rain. The spring was also average, with rain at the end. The summer began with cooler temperatures until the middle of August, when the temperature then rose to assist perfect ripening. Around 20th September rain assisted the harvest at Vittoria. On the other hand the beginning of summer on Etna was fairly dry but the rains at the end of September were useful and prolonged the harvest until 21st October. Might 2010 be one of the best vintages out of the previous ten? It is early to say but it is certainly a super vintage.

The climatic indicators of 2011 had forecast, on a global level, a classic winter with precipitations below average, which after the last few winters with their copious rainfalls had us a little worried. But then in the spring the situation changed; copious rain fell even relatively late in the season and prepared the vineyards to perfection. The summer was hot without being excessively so, and the grapes were able to ripen without a flaw. The 2011 vintage yielded perfectly healthy grapes, if in noticeably diminished quantities. Indeed quantity as well as size of the harvested fruit was reduced by 15% on the average, which means also a decrease in total weight. In any case this resulted in an exceptionally high overall quality, especially of the red grapes which profited greatly by this natural and thus perfect thinning out. The temperatures stayed in the average range and, more importantly, showed no heat spikes. Both September and October were mild, and sporadic rainfalls at the end of the season accomplished the vintage.

Mount Etna The harvest seems to have a tremendous potential and we will be able to know more next year. Undoubtedly, this year the usual elegance of these wines grown on the volcano will give way to the power of the alcohol and tannins. However, this vintage seems to be characterized by wines with an above-average quality. The grapes are healthy and perfectly intact. This is definitely important for a mountain harvest, which by its very nature tends towards the rainy season.

It would be hard to imagine two harvests more different than those of 2012 and 2013. After the hot wines of last year, we have perhaps returned to a vintage more in the ‘Etna style’. A long dry summer, but not too hot, just perfect. However we did need the September rains, and the rain arrived and never seemed to finish! We waited patiently, and then a miracle arrived. On 15th October a sort of Indian Summer arrived and completely turned the vintage around. On Etna it is essential to harvest late to ensure the quality of the reds. It seems early to say but it seems that the whites indicate minerals and Nerello its variety.