From the union between the Sicilian varietal Grillo and the international Viognier, native to the Rhone valley, comes a harmonious blend that expresses the sunlight and richness of Sicily. This aromatic wine showcases the great oenological potential of Sicily that expresses elegantly fragrant aromas in its white wines. In this wine, Grillo brings intense, exotic tropical notes of mango intermingled with delicate notes of white flowers and stone fruits. Viognier flourishes in Sicily, expressing delicate notes of peach, apricot and citrus with a light hint of wildflowers and fresh honey. Behind these two components, there is a refined oak element with elegant notes of vanilla that respect the nuance of these varietals. VINIFICATION Grapes: 80% Grillo, 20% Viognier. Grillo: Harvested in midSeptember, destemming and soft pressing of 70% of the grapes, the other 30% undergoes maceration on the skins for 12 hrs at 50°F, decantation of the must at 54°F for 24 hours, addition of selected yeasts and fermentation at controlled temperature of 60°F for 10 days, followed by maturation in stainless steel tanks. Viognier: Harvested around the first week of September, destemming and soft pressing, decantation at 54°F for 24 hours, addition of selected yeasts and fermentation in 3 year old barriques with light toasting, maturation in oak for 8 months with periodic batonnage (resuspension of yeast). Blend: After maturation, the wines are blended and then aged in stainless steel for an additional 4 months. Bottling is followed by 4 months of bottle refinement. CHARACTERISTICS Color: Soft yellow with touches of green. Bouquet: Intense nose of tropical fruit and jasmine unites with delicate notes of peach, apricot and citrus, accented by hints of wildflowers and fresh honey. Flavor: Elegant, rich white with a powerful nose that is complemented by vanilla undertones.ALCOHOL CONTENT 13% PAIRINGS Seafood appetizers, pasta dishes with fish or white meat, grilled fish and medium aged cheese.SERVING TEMPERATURE 50-54° F STEMMARI Dalila 16 - 89 pts - Wine Enthusiast - 2018 STEMMARI Dalila 16 - 88 pts - Ultimate Wine Challenge - 2018 STEMMARI Dalila 16 - 90 pts - Ultimate Wine Challenge - 2019