Alta Mora 2022 Etna Bianco

Rising from the dramatic volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, the Alta Mora 2022 Etna Bianco stands as a striking expression of terroir, tradition, and precision winemaking. Crafted by the renowned Cusumano family, this small production Sicilian white captures the raw energy of one of the world’s most fascinating wine regions. “Alta Mora,” meaning “Tall, Black,” references both the soaring elevation of the vineyards and the dark volcanic soils that define the wine’s unmistakable character. Produced entirely from 100 percent Carricante, Sicily’s noble indigenous grape, this Etna Bianco delivers a regal and age worthy profile that continues to elevate the reputation of Etna wines on the global stage.

In the glass, the wine reveals a luminous bright yellow hue that immediately signals freshness and vitality. Aromatically, it unfolds with remarkable depth and clarity, offering layers of ripe apple, delicate white flowers, lemon icing, and a subtle thread of fresh ginger. These aromas are not merely expressive but finely detailed, reflecting the high altitude vineyards where intense sunlight meets cooling mountain breezes, preserving acidity while allowing full phenolic maturity. The volcanic soils lend a distinctive mineral undertone that adds tension and sophistication to the bouquet.

On the palate, the Alta Mora 2022 Etna Bianco is both powerful and refined. Fermented in stainless steel at controlled temperatures between 64 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the wine preserves purity of fruit while emphasizing Carricante’s naturally vibrant structure. Four months of lees aging introduce texture and complexity, creating a layered mouthfeel that balances richness with precision. Flavors echo the aromatic profile, expanding into ripe orchard fruit, citrus zest, and a deep, spicy core that speaks directly to Etna’s volcanic origins.

The finish is long, resonant, and remarkably nuanced, revealing cooling notes of minty herbs and saline minerality that linger gracefully. This combination of freshness, depth, and structure makes the wine exceptionally versatile at the table while also signaling impressive aging potential. Over time, Carricante develops honeyed, smoky complexities, rewarding collectors who appreciate whites capable of evolution.

For enthusiasts searching for authentic Etna Bianco, volcanic soil wines, or premium Sicilian white wine crafted from indigenous grapes, the Alta Mora 2022 represents extraordinary value and authenticity. It captures the essence of Mount Etna with precision and elegance, offering both immediate pleasure and cellar worthy promise. Few wines so clearly translate place into flavor, and fewer still deliver such harmony between power, finesse, and unmistakable identity.

Alcohol: 12.5%

92 POINTS - "The nose is defined by light, floral aromas of yellow apple, pear, lemon and white flowers, while warm, stony undertones provide balance. The palate is citrus-forward, with the tree-fruit elements also enduring, before a faintly nutty, salty finish that gets a gentle boost from easygoing acid." - Wine Enthusiast

90 POINTS - "Remarkably fresh, the 2022 Etna Bianco wafts up with an herbal-tinged bouquet that blends wet stone and hints of smoke with crushed almonds and pear. This washes across the palate with a mineral-laden wave of ripe orchard fruits, offset by a touch of sour lime. It finishes crisply refreshing and long, with a bump of mouthwatering acidity that calls the taster back to the glass." - Vinous

Bright yellow with deep aromas of ripe apple, white flowers, lemon icing, and ginger. Deep, spicy and rich, finishes long with nuances of minty herbs at the back.