Planeta Chardonnay, Menfi DOC

Planeta Chardonnay, Menfi DOC

Planeta Chardonnay is widely regarded as one of Sicily’s finest white wines and remains one of the benchmark Chardonnays of Italy. First released in 1994, this iconic wine helped transform the reputation of Sicilian wine, proving that the island could produce world-class Chardonnay to rival many of the finest examples from around the world. Now bottled as a Menfi DOC, Planeta Chardonnay continues to combine remarkable richness, elegance and freshness, making it one of Italy’s most celebrated white wines.

Planeta Chardonnay Vineyards

Planeta Chardonnay Menfi DOC is produced exclusively from 100% Chardonnay grapes grown in the Ulmo and Maroccoli vineyards near Sambuca di Sicilia in the province of Agrigento. These carefully selected sites combine limestone-rich soils, abundant pebbles and excellent drainage, creating ideal conditions for producing fruit with both concentration and freshness.

Winemaking

• The wine is vinified at Planeta’s winery in Ulmo.
• The wine is made from 100% de-stemmed Chardonnay grapes, which are crushed and the juice clarified before fermentation.
• Fermentation and ageing take place in 225-litre French oak barriques (Allier oak), with 40% new, 30% second-use, and 30% third-use barrels.
• The wine ages for 11 months, with bâtonnage (stirring of lees) carried out every 10 days.
• This wine is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

About Planeta Winery

Founded in 1985, Planeta has become one of Italy’s most innovative and highly respected family-owned wineries. Managed by cousins Francesca, Alessio and Santi Planeta, the estate has played a pivotal role in the renaissance of Sicilian wine, showcasing the island’s diverse terroirs through a range of outstanding wines produced across several historic wine-growing regions.

The winery’s commitment to quality was recognised when it was awarded the prestigious Cantina dell’Anno (Italian Winery of the Year) in 1999. Today, Planeta enjoys an international reputation for producing exceptional wines, with its Chardonnay remaining one of the estate’s signature bottlings and a reference point for premium Sicilian Chardonnay. Don’t forget to check out Planeta’s superb extra virgin olive oil.