2017 Planeta “Maroccoli” Menfi Syrah
The 2017 Planeta “Menfi” Syrah Marocoli is not only an outstanding wine but it’s also a prime example of why
Producer
Planeta
I have reviewed nine wines from Planeta, from the 2017 to 2023 vintages, across Etna, Menfi, Terre Siciliane and others. Scores range from 90 to 96, averaging 93; the highest is the 2023 Planeta Chardonnay (96 points).
Founded in 1995 by the cousins Alessio, Francesca and Santi Planeta, this family estate catalyzed the modern Sicilian wine renaissance. They began by proving the island’s potential with international varieties like Chardonnay and Syrah before becoming leading champions of Sicily’s indigenous grapes and diverse terroirs. Today Planeta makes a “journey through Sicily,” with wineries in Menfi, Vittoria, Noto, Etna and Capo Milazzo.
Menfi is where it started. The Chardonnay practically put modern Sicilian wine on the map; historically rich and heavily wooded, the recent vintages have become more coastal and tense, with a saline snap. The Maroccoli Syrah, from an elevated vineyard, is peppery, meaty and structured rather than jammy, and Burdese is the estate’s tribute to Bordeaux. La Segreta Rosso, anchored by Nero d’Avola, is an everyday red with real energy.
On the north slope of Etna the style changes completely. The Etna Bianco and the Contrada Taccione, 100% Carricante from about 700 metres on black lava sand, are all volcanic tension and salinity; the Etna Rosso and Eruzione 1614, named after the long eruption of that year, show Nerello Mascalese’s red fruit, ash and fine, strict tannins. Few Sicilian producers cover so much of the island so consistently.
Wine Reviews for Planeta
2023 Planeta “Contrada Taccione” Etna Bianco
Planeta built its empire on rich, golden Chardonnay, but their operation on the northern slopes of Mount Etna is an
2022 Planeta “La Segreta” Terre Siciliane Rosso
When you drop down to the entry-level tier of Sicilian reds, you are usually walking right into a wasteland of
2021 Planeta “Maroccoli” Menfi Syrah
Growing Syrah in the deep south of Sicily is usually a recipe for a baked, flabby, jammy disaster. Most of
2023 Planeta Etna Rosso
Planeta might be a massive name in Sicily, but their operation on the northern slopes of Mount Etna is entirely
2023 Planeta Chardonnay
Planeta practically put modern Sicilian wine on the map with this exact bottling, and historically, it leaned hard into a
2020 Planeta Etna Bianco
The 2020 Planeta Etna Bianco is a stunningly elegant introduction to Mount Etna wines. And at just $20, this is
2018 Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese Etna Rosso
2018 Planeta “Eruzione 1614” Nerello Mascalese Etna Rosso is a remarkable discovery. It showcases the elegance and sophistication of Mount
2018 Planeta Eruzione 1614 Nerello Mascalese Etna Rosso Read Post »
2018 Planeta Burdese Sicilia Cabernet Sauvignon
Following the incredible success of our deal with Planeta’s “Menfi” Syrah Maroccoli wines, we are excited to present another gem