Three young Sicilians, Alessio, Francesca and Santi Planeta, under the winemaking guidance of Diego Planeta, began their venture in the 1980s. They planted indigenous and international grape varieties within the diverse Sicilian landscape with each varietal complementing the local terroir. Planeta maintains seven distinct wine estates in five regions across Sicily: Ulmo at Sambuca di Sicilia, Dispensa at Menfi, Dorilli at Vittoria, Buonivini at Noto, Sciara Nuova on Etna at Castiglione di Sicilia, and La Baronia at Capo Milazzo.

These family members began at Ulmo, planting the first vineyards near the 16th century family farmhouse. The winery was completed in 1995 on the banks of the Lake Arancio. Today, there are 395 acres of vines.

Beneath the delicate ruby hue of this wine are aromatic undertones of wet earth, underbrush and forest floor. You realize after the first sip that this is a complex red that requires serious attention. Juicy spiced cherries greet you on the entry along with elements of garrigue, thyme, rosemary and crushed black pepper. This is a mid-term and enjoyable red wine with lovely acidity.

By W Peter Hoyne