Gaja IDDA Bianco Sicilia 2025 is one of the most compelling white wine projects to emerge from Sicily in recent years, born from the collaboration between two Italian winemaking icons: Angelo Gaja and Alberto Graci. "IDDA"—the name locals use for Mount Etna—means "she," reflecting the special bond the local population shares with the volcano. The wine is crafted from Carricante grapes grown on the southwestern slopes of Etna, where volcanic soils, significant diurnal temperature variations, and high altitude impart exceptional minerality and longevity.
The aroma reveals notes of grapefruit zest, lemon, white peach, and quince, complemented by hints of jasmine blossoms, thyme, sage, and a refreshing touch of mint. In the glass, the wine constantly evolves, unveiling subtle nuances of honey, hay, and volcanic minerality.
The wine is remarkably precise, energetic, and graceful. Vibrant acidity provides freshness, while the saline minerality and citrus character—hallmarks of the Carricante variety—create an impressive structure. On the palate, one finds flavors of lemon, green apple, and white peach, accented by delicate herbal tones, leading into a long, clean, and saline finish. This is a white wine that balances power with elegance, and concentration with remarkable lightness.
The grapes are grown on the slopes of Mount Etna at an altitude of 700–800 meters above sea level. Volcanic soils—composed of lava and volcanic ash—impart a distinctive minerality to the wine, while the high altitude helps preserve a crisp acidity, even within Sicily’s hot climate. 'Carricante' is considered one of Italy’s most promising white grape varieties, capable of producing wines with exceptional longevity.
Fermentation takes place in steel tanks and, to a lesser extent, in larger wooden vessels, where the wine is aged on its lees to maintain the purity of the variety and the expression of its *terroir*. "IDDA Bianco" stands as a prime example of contemporary white winemaking on Mount Etna, illustrating why this region is currently regarded as one of the most promising areas in Europe for the production of white wines.
Recommended to be served at a temperature of 8–10°C with oysters, seafood, pan-fried white fish, octopus, lemon risotto, fresh goat cheese, or aged Pecorino.
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.
