At a glance

Producer

Ivory Bend

Region

Sicily, Italy

Grape variety

Carricante

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20 - $30

Tasting profile

Bright citrus, green apple, white flowers, with saline minerality from volcanic soils. Clean and vibrant.

Evolution: Over the next 2-4 years, fruit will mellow slightly, evolving honeyed and nutty notes while retaining crisp acidity.

At peak: Balanced freshness with integrated minerality and subtle complexity on mid-palate.

Structure

Acidity

High, crisp acidity typical of Carricante from volcanic soils

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

12.5%-13%

Aging potential

Moderate, best within 5-7 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2025

Optimal window

2020 to 2026

Current status

Drinking well

Current condition

Fresh with good acidity and minerality

2019 was a warm but balanced vintage in Sicily favoring ripeness with maintained acidity. Carricante’s natural acidity combined with volcanic soil minerality supports freshness and food friendliness for several years after release, peaking around 3-5 years post vintage before gradual decline in vibrancy.

Food pairing

Excellent with seafood (grilled fish, shellfish), light pasta dishes, fresh salads, and Mediterranean cheeses. Also versatile with white meat and vegetarian cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on water conservation, integrated pest management, minimal chemical inputs, use of renewable energy where possible

Ivory Bend produces Carricante with attention to sustainability including vineyard management practices that reduce water usage and chemical inputs, but no organic certification currently. Local production in Sicily limits transportation emissions for European consumers, though exports to distant markets increase carbon footprint. Packaging initiatives aim at lighter bottles and recyclable materials to minimize environmental impact.