Ficiligno 2014 from Sicilia

The Ficiligno 2014  is from the DOC Sicilia and produced by Baglio De Pianetto. The name was chosen for the local siliceous rocks in Pianetto in Santa Cristina Gela. This delicious wine was produced with the unusual grape variety Insolia and the international grape Viognier. The pale yellow wine with a light green hue has 13% alcohol. The wine offered an aroma filled with white peaches and floral scents. The taste was of yellow stone fruit predominantly white peaches. The finish was crisp and there were hints of chalk on the aftertaste. Consider this wine to be “summer in a glass.” For a novelty, add a frozen peach slice to keep it cold.

The Insolia grape variety is indigenous to Italy and can be found in both Sicilia and Tuscano. According to Jancis Robinson’s Wine Grapes, the Insolia variety has been dated back to the 1600s.

History of Baglio De Pianetto

In 1977 Count Paolo Marzotto was inspired to create Baglio Di Pianetto located just outside Santa Cristina Gela, a Sicilian village. According to their website, his dream was “to produce wines that combine the character of Sicily and the elegance  of  France.”   Since that time he and Countess Florence Marzotto have worked to showcase what the Sicilian terroir has to offer. Today the second and third Marzotto generations are involved with the winery.

Vineyards

The Pianetto vineyards consist of about 65 hectares (161 acres) of grapevines. Grape varieties include: Insolia, Catarratto, Viognier, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. There are also three hectares of olive trees. During the summer, the vineyard is green harvested. Grape harvest takes place by hand.

The Baroni vineyards are in Noto and have 39 hectares (96 acres) of vineyards. Grape varieties include:  Moscato, Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Syrah. This property also has three hectares of olive groves.

The vineyards in both regions are farmed with organic farming practices.

Wine Tourism

Visitors to Sicilia will want to visit Baglio Di Pianetto for a guided tour and wine tasting. Local foods may also be featured with the wines. Be sure to contact the winery for an appointment.

Cheers!
Kathy