Planeta Chardonnay 2023

Planeta is one of Sicily's leading producers, with its heart at Sambuca di Sicilia in the south west corner of the island, where the family has grown wine since the mid 1980s. This Chardonnay comes from the DOC Menfi, close to the coast. The warm, sunny Sicilian climate ripens the grapes fully and builds ripe stone fruit and higher alcohol at 14 per cent, while proximity to the sea and cooling breezes keep the fruit from tipping into heaviness. The wine is fermented in barrel, so the yeast works in contact with the wood and the fruit, which integrates oak more seamlessly than ageing alone and builds a creamy, toasted texture. Time on the lees adds body and a nutty depth. The colour is bright gold. The nose shows white peach, melon and honey with vanilla and toasted bread from the barrel. The palate is full and rounded, the ripe fruit balanced by a savoury, nutty finish. Serve at 11 to 12 degrees in a large white wine glass.