Carricante

Carricante is a white grape variety emblematic of Sicily and Italy, and more specifically of the volcanic slopes of Etna DOC. Cultivated for centuries in this unique environment, the variety owes its name to the Italian word caricare (to load), in reference to its ability to produce grapes in abundance. Nevertheless, it is above all for its delicious aromatic profile as well as its ability to express its terroir that Carricante appeals. On the volcanic soils of Etna, this beautiful grape variety indeed gives rise to white wines of great freshness marked by a beautiful minerality. Many winemakers highlight it in single-vineyard cuvées, thus revealing all its finesse. Carricante thus embodies a modern vision of great Mediterranean white wines : precise, elegant, and deeply rooted in their terroir.

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The aromatic profile of Carricante

Carricante is a unique white grape variety that expresses all the richness of the volcanic soils of Etna, in Sicily. Grown on different slopes of the volcano, often at several hundred meters of altitude, it produces a white wine (bianco) characterized by strong minerality, beautiful freshness, and remarkable tension.

These white wines develop aromas of citrus, flowers, and white fruits, accompanied by mineral notes, sometimes slightly smoky, typical of volcanic terroirs. Over time, the best cuvées evolve towards more complex profiles, blending honey, dried fruits, and saline nuances.

 

A grape variety perfectly suited to Etna and its DOC

The Carricante finds on the slopes of Etna a particularly suitable environment for expression. Indeed, at the heart of the Etna DOC, the altitude, volcanic soils, and temperature variations between day and night help preserve its natural acidity, while ensuring optimal ripeness of its grapes. 

Often managed in organic, local viticulture is demanding and aims to reveal each terroir with precision. The estates here finely adjust the work of each plot, from vine pruning to yield control, in order to express all the uniqueness of these volcanic soils.

 

A grape variety in full revival

Long overshadowed, Carricante is now experiencing a true revival. Many winemakers in Sicily, like those at Pietradolce estate, are indeed highlighting its potential through increasingly high-quality cuvées from plots located at high altitudes. This in-depth work is helping to reposition Carricante among the best Italian white grape varieties. It now appeals to a new generation of enthusiasts seeking wines with a strong identity, capable of combining freshness, minerality, and depth. Discover it for yourself, you won't be disappointed !

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