2023 Santa Tresa Rina Ianca Grillo Viognier

Rina Ianca Grillo Viognier 2023 is a bright, mineral-driven Sicilian white that marries the indigenous freshness of Grillo with the plush body and aromatic depth of Viognier.

Santa Tresa, nestled in Vittoria’s limestone-rich soils, is a family-led estate founded in 2001 by Stefano and Marina Girelli. Encompassing 39 hectares of vines (including rare biotypes in their organic experimental plot) the estate blends Trentino expertise with Sicilian authenticity. Sustainable irrigation, organic fertilisation with favino cover crops, and both traditional oak and modern stainless-steel vinifications define their hands-on approach.

Grillo and Viognier grapes are hand-harvested in 15 kg bins, with the Viognier in late August, Grillo in early September. It's then chilled overnight to preserve aromatics. After gentle destemming and soft pressing, the must settles at 10 °C before fermenting in stainless steel at 17–19 °C for 10–12 days. The finished wines are blended and aged on fine lees for four months with regular bâtonnage.

Rina Ianca (“white sand” in Sicilian) stands out for its seamless fusion of Grillo’s brisk minerality and Viognier’s ripe fruit and texture. Its award-winning stature underscores Sicily’s prowess in white winemaking as much as reds.

Pairing Suggestions: Vegetarian: spinach and ricotta ravioli with sage butter. Non-vegetarian: grilled prawns or seafood risotto.

Tasting Note: Straw yellow hue, layered aromas of white peach, apricot and fresh herbs, followed by a crisp, saline palate and a soft, lingering finish.

Origin: Vittoria, Sicily, Italy

Alcohol: 13.0%

Blend: Grillo, Viognier