Wines Noto Planeta - Santa Ceclilia - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Planeta Santa Cecilia 2018 is a remarkable red wine hailing from the Noto DOC in Sicily, Italy. Crafted predominantly from the native Nero d’Avola grape, this wine showcases the unique character of the region’s flagship varietal. The 2018 vintage experienced a balanced growing season, allowing for optimal ripening and expressive fruit development. The winemaking at Planeta is meticulous, often involving careful temperature control during fermentation and subsequent ageing, partly in French oak barrels. This hands-on approach imparts a harmonious balance between ripe red and black fruit flavours, subtle spice, and refined tannins, leading to a wine of depth and elegance.

Noto, in the southeastern part of Sicily, boasts a fascinating terroir marked by calcareous, limestone-rich soils and a typically Mediterranean climate. The combination of abundant sunshine, cooling sea breezes, and modest rainfall creates ideal conditions for Nero d’Avola, strengthening its natural concentration and aromatic complexity. The wine heritage of Sicily, and especially the Noto area, dates back thousands of years, with a renaissance in recent decades thanks to producers like Planeta who champion indigenous varieties and elevate them through contemporary, sustainable viticulture.

For food pairings, the Santa Cecilia’s robust structure and aromatic richness make it an excellent match for hearty Sicilian cuisine. Consider pairing it with eggplant caponata, lamb cooked with wild herbs, or pasta alla Norma—a dish featuring fried aubergine and tomato sauce. Its balancing acidity and persistent finish also complement grilled red meats, aged pecorino cheese, or even a rustic pizza topped with olives and capers. For a touch of class, local Sicilian sausage with fennel seeds is a particularly harmonious match.

To fully appreciate the Santa Cecilia 2018, serve it at 16–18°C. Decanting for around an hour before serving will allow its complex bouquet of plum, cherry, violet, and sweet spice to fully express itself. Enjoy this wine now, or let it evolve gracefully for several more years in your cellar.