Generations of the Planeta family – siblings, children and grandchildren – work side by side, embarking on a journey across Sicily as if exploring a vast wine continent. This ambitious venture has led to the founding of estates in five distinct territories from west to east, driven by a spirit of innovation and modernity. Yet, the family’s approach remains deeply rooted in Sicily’s winemaking history and rituals, blending a reverence for the past with a vision for the future.
On one hand, Planeta celebrates the ancient traditions of Sicilian enology, reviving indigenous grape varieties – even those nearly forgotten. On the other, they embrace international varietals that thrive in local conditions, alongside some bold experimentation. Above all, surrounding each estate, Planeta created a holistic experience encompassing wine, hospitality, cuisine, nature and culture.
At the heart of Planeta’s philosophy is an unwavering commitment to sustainable, long-term viticulture. This includes protecting the environment, preserving the unique landscapes and cultures of each region, and designing wineries that seamlessly integrate into their surroundings. Their wines embody the essence of each territory, while the family’s broader initiatives – ranging from hospitality and art to environmental and social responsibility – reflect a natural drive to promote beauty in every form.
«Sciaranuova, about 850 meters above sea level, embodies the magnetic charm of this volcanic land»
Embracing the Etna Landscape: Sciaranuova and Feudo di Mezzo
Between 2006 and 2008, the Planeta family brought their Etna project to life. Located on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, Sciaranuova sits at an elevation of about 850 meters, embodying the raw and magnetic allure of this volcanic region. The estate is nestled between the “sciare” (lava flows) from the historic 1614 eruption – the longest in history, lasting ten years and halting at the very edge of Sciaranuova’s vineyards – and the lush oak, chestnut and olive forests surrounding Passopisciaro.
In 2012, Planeta expanded their presence with the inauguration of the Feudo di Mezzo Winery. Positioned between the vineyards of Sciaranuova and Montelaguardia, just south of Passopisciaro, the winery is set within a captivating “stone garden” formed by a 1556 lava flow. This architectural endeavor exemplifies Planeta’s dedication to environmental harmony, blending modern innovation with a profound respect for the surrounding landscape. Constructed using local lava stone, the winery integrates seamlessly into the Etna territory, reinterpreting its distinctive features with a contemporary touch.
«the winery at Feudo di Mezzo was built inside a 1556 lava flow»
The Unique Soils of Etna: A Natural Masterpiece
The soils of Mount Etna, shaped by the slow erosion of volcanic rock, ash emitted from craters and rich organic matter, are a remarkable example of natural complexity. These terrains, marked by a high content of rocky fragments and minerals, vary greatly from one terrace to another both in the amount and size of skeleton and in the depth of each soil. However, two elements are common to all the vineyards in the Etna area: their extraordinary fertility and complexity.
Planeta’s vineyards, nestled amidst forests and more recent lava flows, rest on perfectly exposed terrain with an ideal slope. The black volcanic sands imbue the soil with an exceptional richness in minerals, offering a robust and large-grained structure. This unique combination creates the perfect foundation for viticulture, enhancing the distinctive character of Etna’s wines.
«two elements are common to all the vineyards in the Etna area: their fertility and complexity»
A Commitment to Sustainable Cultivation
From the very beginning of their Etna project, Planeta focused on crafting white wines, selecting Sciaranuova to plant 4500 Rhine Riesling vines. This variety, perfectly suited to volcanic soils, thrives at the altitude of the terraces bordering the historic 1614 lava flow.
Today, Sciaranuova spans 33 hectares of vineyards located between 815 and 860 meters above sea level. It is home to not only Riesling Renano – a symbol of Planeta’s dedication to agronomic experimentation – but also the region’s quintessential native varieties: Carricante, Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Complementing these is Pinot Noir, cultivated in the smallest plot of Sciaranuova, with 3000 vines.
Beyond Sciaranuova, Planeta’s vineyard portfolio extends across Feudo di Mezzo (610 meters, Nerello Mascalese), Montelaguardia (690–720 meters, Carricante), Pietramarina (510 meters, Nerello Mascalese) and Torreguarino. In each location, the cultivation strictly adheres to organic farming principles and the sustainable Sostain protocol, reinforcing Planeta’s commitment to environmentally responsible viticulture.
«Native and international varieties are grown here, symbolizing planeta’s desire for experimentation»
A Hub of Hospitality on Etna
The historic dwellings of Sciaranuova, meticulously restored with a focus on conservation, now form the beating heart of Planeta’s hospitality on Mount Etna. This place enchants guests with its authentic atmosphere, offering an immersive experience in the unique landscape of Etna.
Outside, the allure continues with a charming natural amphitheater, crafted from the transformation of ancient terraces. This “vineyard theater” comes alive each summer, hosting cultural events by Planeta that merge art and nature. Adding to the magic is a captivating site-specific contemporary art installation dedicated to Ettore Majorana.
Strolling through the estate, visitors can also admire the traditional lava stone terraces that embrace the surrounding vineyards, a testament to the timeless beauty of this fascinating land.
«Sciaranuova’s ancient homes, restored with a conservative approach, form the heart of Planeta’s Etna hospitality»
WINERY OPENINGS, TOURS AND TASTINGS
– For info and reservations for wine tours: tel. 0039 0925 195 5460, www.planeta.it/en/hospitality/sciaranuova/, reservation@planeta.it
– 7 tasting possibilities:
Repertorio 1694 – Old Vintages Journey: from the Repertory 1694 of old vintages it is possible to taste a selection of labels, the evolution of Planeta wines, which for years have been carefully and patiently kept in the family vault (quotation on request by telephone or email booking)
Flavors of the Volcano: Wines, Breads and Cheeses: wine, bread and cheese are three products at the base of the enogastronomic culture of the Etna territory, which are explored here in their peculiarities in a game of pairings (visit of the vineyards, guided tasting of 4 Etna wines paired with a selection of traditional Etna cheeses and breads from trusted bakers, tasting of Planeta Igp oil, duration 1.30 h, about 55 euros)
Flavors of the Volcano: Wines, Breads and Cheeses Grand Tour: wine, bread and cheese are three products at the base of the enogastronomic culture of the Etna territory, which here are explored in their peculiarities in a game of pairings (visit of the vineyards, guided tasting of 4 Etna wines paired with a selection of traditional Etna cheeses and breads from trusted bakers, tasting of Planeta Igp oil, lunch, duration 2.30 h, about 90 euros)
The White Lotus: Wine, Art and Landscape: an experience in an extraordinary setting in which the rural art of dry stone walls and lava stone terracing marries two contemporary art installations (visit of the vineyards, guided and partly itinerant tasting of 5 wines, aperitif with seasonal and typical sicilian products, tasting of Planeta Igp olive oil, duration 1.30 h, about 65 euros)
The White Lotus: Wine, Art and Landscape Grand Tour: an experience in an extraordinary setting in which the rural art of dry stone walls and lava stone terracing marries two contemporary art installations (visit of the vineyards, guided and partly itinerant tasting of 5 wines, aperitif with seasonal and typical sicilian products, tasting of Planeta Igp olive oil, lunch, duration 2.30 h, about 95 euros)
Journey Through Sicily: this tasting covers 5 terroirs and explores the universe of Sicilian Doc wines and its unique Docg (visit to vineyards and winery, guided tasting of 5 wines with food and wine pairings of Sicilian delicacies, tasting of Planeta Igp oil)
Cooking Class Experience at the Winery: the chefs of Casa Planeta take participants into the kitchens at the heart of Planeta hospitality, while sipping a good glass of wine
– Meetings with the guides are scheduled 15 minutes before the start time of the tours
CONTACTS
Contrada Sciaranuova
95012 Castglione di Sicilia (CT)
tel. 0925 195 5460
planeta@planeta.it
www.planeta.it
