Donnafugata translates as “fugitive woman,” referring to the time in the 1800’s when Queen Maria Carolina found refuge from Napoleon’s troops in the vineyards near the winery. The winery was founded in 1983 by the Rallo family and is now under the guidance of their children Antonio and José. They cultivate their grapes from 35 distinct districts using 10 indigenous grape varieties. Their colorful artistic labels are a creation of Gabriella Rallo working together with artist Stefano Vitale.

This 100% Carricante wine is sourced from the volcanic soils on the north side of Mount Etna. The pale yellow reveals a subtle, shy nose of lemon peel. The organic content of these lava soils contributes a lemon peel, mandarin orange and stone fruit component to the wines. In the core are refreshing elements of green apple, chalk and stony minerality interspersed between the vibrant layers.

By W Peter Hoyne