2022 Girolamo Russo " San Lorenzo" Etna Bianco, Sicily, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

Made predominantly from Carricante—Etna’s noble white grape—the San Lorenzo Etna Bianco is sourced from a small, high-elevation parcel near Randazzo, on the northern slope of Mount Etna. The site sits at 750 meters above sea level, where cool nights and volcanic soils yield grapes of extraordinary freshness and aromatic lift. The vines are relatively young compared to Russo’s red parcels but are farmed with the same organic discipline and precision.

Fermentation takes place in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts to preserve purity and transparency. There is no oak influence, allowing the wine’s citrus and mineral profile to shine. The 2022 vintage was characterized by a cool, even growing season, lending this wine laser focus and a clean, driving energy.

This Etna Bianco is a versatile partner for Mediterranean seafood dishes—think grilled swordfish, seared scallops, or linguine with clams—as well as herbed poultry, young cheeses, and vegetable-driven fare. A compelling expression of Carricante’s capacity for structure and finesse.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Girolamo Russo, founded by Giuseppe Russo in 2005, is one of Etna’s leading estates, known for its soulful, site-expressive wines. Based in Passopisciaro, the winery farms about 15 hectares of vineyards across Etna’s most iconic contrade, including San Lorenzo, Feudo, and Calderara Sottana. Originally focused on Nerello Mascalese, Russo has increasingly devoted attention to Carricante, recognizing its potential to reflect the same volcanic terroir with precision and vibrancy.

The estate is committed to certified organic farming, biodiversity, and minimal intervention. Giuseppe’s winemaking approach for whites mirrors his reds: respect the fruit, allow the land to speak, and avoid masking the purity of place. The San Lorenzo Bianco is a testament to Etna’s ability to produce world-class whites that are as age-worthy and nuanced as its reds.