Winemaker Antonino Caravaglio’s ancestors were certainly among the first to partner with Venetian traders bearing rootstock from Greece, planting the original Malvasia delle Lipari and Corinto Nero vines.
Antonino was among the first artisans in Sicily to become organically certified in the 1990s; historically, his family’s vines and caper plants for centuries have been farmed according to organic principles.
From Malfa, the best part of the Aeolian island of Salina (near Sicily) for grape-growing. Grown on slopes of volcanic rock and sand. Elevation is 600-1200 ft. Vine age is 20-30 years.
Completely dry. Exotic and intensely perfumed, lychee, Meyer lemon, pineapple and white flowers on the nose. Salty, and mineral palate that speaks of its island origins. Sun kissed.
region: Salina, Italy
varietal: 90% Malvasia Bianco, 10% other local white grapes
style: island white
farming/cellar: certified organic, harvested by hand, gentle full cluster free, fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks, aged in tank on fine lees for two to three months, low so2
Pairing: with a whole grilled fish and garnish with lots of herbs, lemon, and caperberries.