Gaja IDDA Bianco Sicilia 2024 is one of the most interesting Sicilian white wine projects of recent years, born from the collaboration of two Italian winemaking authorities - Angelo Gaja and Alberto Graci. "IDDA" is the Sicilian name for the Etna volcano, meaning "she", emphasizing the special relationship of the locals with this mountain. The wine is made from 'Carricante' grapes, grown on the southwestern slopes of Etna, where volcanic soils, large daily temperature fluctuations and altitude provide exceptional minerality and longevity.
The aroma reveals notes of grapefruit peel, lemon, white peach and quince, complemented by jasmine flowers, thyme, sage and fresh hints of mint. In the glass, the wine constantly changes, revealing subtle nuances of honey, hay and volcanic minerality.
The wine is extremely precise, energetic and graceful. The bright acidity provides freshness, while the salty minerality and citrus character typical of the 'Carricante' variety create an impressive structure. In the mouth, there are notes of lemon, green apple, white peach and light herbal tones, which transition into a long, clean and salty aftertaste. This is a white wine in which strength is combined with elegance, and concentration with extraordinary lightness.
The grapes are grown on the slopes of Etna at an altitude of 700-800 meters above sea level. The volcanic soils, composed of lava and volcanic ash, give the wine its characteristic minerality, and the altitude allows it to preserve its fresh acidity even in the hot Sicilian climate. 'Carricante' is considered one of the most promising Italian white grape varieties, capable of creating extremely long-lasting wines.
Fermentation takes place in steel tanks and in some larger wooden containers, where the wine is aged with yeast sediments in order to maintain the purity of the variety and the expression of the terroir. IDDA Bianco is one of the most prominent examples of modern Etna white winemaking, demonstrating why this region is considered one of the most promising in Europe for the production of white wines today.
It is recommended to serve at a temperature of 8–10°C with: oysters, seafood, grilled white fish, octopus, lemon risotto, fresh goat cheese or aged Pecorino.
A fresh, peppery style with a spicy, citrusy nose and core aromas of stone fruit. Medium-bodied. More focused on the rich palate than on the aromatic profile. Enjoyable texture and length. Drink now.
The Gaja family settled in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy in the mid-17th century. They have been producing wine in the Barbaresco area since 1859. Four generations of dedicated work and a noble pursuit of making top-quality wines have made the Gaja name synonymous with Italian winemaking excellence worldwide. Today, the fifth generation – Gaia, Giovanni, and Rossana Gaja – continues the family traditions, leading this legendary winery.
Currently, Gaja in Piedmont produces both classic expressions of the ‘Nebbiolo’ grape – Barbarescos and Barolos – and innovative “Langhe DOC” red and white wines from international grape varieties. The family also owns two estates in Tuscany: “Ca’Marcanda” in Bolgheri, famous for its “Super Tuscan” wines, and “Pieve S. Restituta” in the Montalcino area, producing “Brunello di Montalcino” wines. Additionally, a joint project with Alberto Graci in Sicily, at the foot of Mount Etna, testifies to the family’s constant pursuit of innovation and quality.
The Gaja family firmly believes that the true spirit and quality of wine are born in the vineyards themselves. Therefore, the greatest attention is paid to vineyard care: searching for climate change-resistant clones, limiting yields, growing other crops between vineyard rows to enrich the soil and help retain moisture and protect the harvest from heat. The highest quality standards are applied to all farms: grapes are grown only in family-owned vineyards, adhering to ecological and sustainability principles, with particular attention to soil quality and biodiversity.
Wine Style
Gaja wines are characterized by elegance, complexity, and perfectly reflect the terroir of their origin regions.
Prestigious Vineyards
The Gaja family owns prestigious vineyards in the Piedmont and Tuscany regions:
Aging and Consumption Period
Gaja wines are characterized by an excellent balance, allowing them to be enjoyed both young and mature. They have immense potential to age and develop over time, revealing new nuances of their character.
