Planeta assumes management of Castello Solicchiata

The wines of Castello Solicchiata, at foot of Mount Etna, will be marketed exclusively by Planeta, with distribution directed to the global market.

The Spitaleri di Muglia family first took control of Castello Solicchiata in the mid-19th century. The estate’s agricultural operations cover 300 terraced hectares, of which 60 are under vine, trained to the alberello method at elevations of 700 to 1,000 metres.

70% of the 550,000 vines planted produce Cabernet France, 10% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. There is also Pinot Noir, with some vines in the Feudo Boschetto dating back to the original plantings. French varieties are exclusively grown, in accordance with the wishes of founder Baron Felice Spitaleri.

This new deal will see Planeta “upgrade” Castello Solicchiata’s wine portfolio, with concert efforts directed at the UK, US and German and domestic markets. Planeta operates in five Sicilian regions: Menfi, Sambuca di Sicilia, Vittoria, Noto, Etna and Capo Milazzo.

Planeta CEO Alessio Planeta said: “Working together with the Spitaleri family means for us participating in the winemaking dream that their ancestors crafted two centuries ago now, and translating it into the present. The contemporary era has seen Sicily assume a place of honour on the Italian and international wine stage, and it is certainly richer for the wines of Castello Solicchiata and for the determination displayed by an exceptional family in conceiving, creating, and evolving its own personal idea of wine by selecting Etna as such a providential locus. The current Castello Solicchiata project is driven by a deep love for our magnificent island.”

“At Castello Solicchiata, in equal measure, Planeta will tirelessly identify and develop hidden and potential resources, individuals with extraordinary potential, everything that can burnish the glorious image of Sicily as historic cradle of Italy’s history and culture and of the western world in general,” Planeta continued.