The Santa Tresa estate dates back to 1697 and was purchased in 2002 by Stefano Girelle and his sister, Marina. Since the purchase, the estate has been fully restored and operates organically and sustainably. Located in Vittoria, the estate owns 40 hectares of vineyards. Rina Lanca means "white sand" in Sicilian dialect, a reference to the coastline and the light, sandy soils where the grapes for this wine are grown today.
The blend consists of 70 percent Grillo and 30 percent Viognier. Both grape varieties are harvested by hand and transported in small 15-kilogram containers. Viognier is harvested in late August, while Grillo is harvested in the first half of September. Both are vinified in a similar manner. The grapes are cooled overnight, with the temperature lowered to 6 to 8 degrees Celsius. This preserves the aromatic qualities of the grapes. The following day, the grapes are gently destemmed and softly pressed. The wine is then transferred to a stainless steel tank, where fermentation takes place for approximately 12 days. The wines are blended and aged on their fine lees for four months.
The minerality and freshness of the Grillo are complemented by the intensity and body of the Viognier. A superb blend. The Rina Lanca Grillo Viognier has a straw-yellow color in the glass. Its beautiful aromas are immediately released, reminiscent of white fruit like peaches, gradually evolving into apricots and spices. On the palate, it is soft and has a wonderful minerality. It is a well-balanced wine with a smooth finish.
