Did you know that the contrada system on Mount Etna in Sicily, a similar mode of identification as the lieu-dit in France, was made official only in 2011? We've been thinking a lot about contrade and the renaissance of Italian white wine these days after one of our own, @iacdt , spoke so elegantly and eloquently about Italian whites and the contrada system in a double header last week @nyvintners and @ilgattopardonyc. @palmentocostanzoetnawine was featured in both conversations, their commitment to the contrade on Etna inspiring, and their three white wines that we carry telling a beautiful story of place on the faces of the volcano. Their vibrant and fresh Mofete Bianco, a blend of largely Carricante with a portion of Cataratto, the aromatic Bianco di Sei , 100% Carricante, full of white flowers, honey and saffron, and the herbaceous Contrada Cavaliere full of orange blossom, citrus and flint embroider a compelling narrative about the differences seen in the contrade. Contrada Cavaliere, is from, well, Contrada Cavaliere, deftly showing the mineral rich soils and an arid, sunny climate. Mofete Bianco, from the classic Contrada Santo Spirito exhibits the restraint of high altitude and northern exposure. The Bianco di Sei, also hails from Santo Spirito, and expresses the cool side of Carricante grown in that black volcanic rock studded with the bright yellow 'ginestra' or scotch broom that heralds when life has returned to the soil of the volcano. Worthy of a three-pronged and delicious study of one of our most passionate producers. #palmento #palmentocostanzaetnawines #artisanalcellars #mountetna #etnawine #sicily #sicilianwine #contrada #italianwhitewine