Arianna Occhipinti SP68 Bianco 2023

Named after the Provincial Road that connects Vittoria and Pedalino, a symbol of the wine-growing area of south-eastern Sicily, the SP68 Bianco is the spritely and pleasant entry wine by Arianna Occhipinti. Vinified in concrete, refined on the lees and unfiltered, it is produced from a beautiful vineyard of red earth and limestone grown organically. Arianna is one of the rare lovers and supporters of the Albanello, an endangered vine that makes up half of the white SP68 (the other half is reserved for Zibibbo, which gives aroma and roundness). This vine, Albanello, is native to the Syracusan, Catania and Nisseno areas, perhaps originally from Magna Graecia, and was celebrated by Veronelli and Soldati as one of the finest white grapes of Sicily. Albanello gives this white SP68 a strong primary scent and a nice mineral and almond finish. Golden clear to the glass, SP68 Bianco expresses notes of aromatic herbs (thyme and rosemary) with herbaceous and spicy scents. The texture is enriched with freshness from rose and orange, with softer and more persuasive flavours of honey and dried fruit. The taste is fresh, balanced by a soft body that finds its counterpoint in a beautiful savoury and almond finish.