Firriato Santagostino Bianco

Romazini: 4/5 Stars

Robert Parker: 87/100 Points

Vintage 2009: The 2009 Baglio Soria Santagostino (Catarratto - Chardonnay) is a pretty, well-made white but it doesn't quite have the distinctiveness of the estate's single-variety wines. Still, the wine's generous fruit, notable length and refreshing finish make it an excellent choice for near-term drinking. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2012.

I have to say I was deeply impressed with the wines I tasted from Firriato this year. Across the board this is a very solid line-up, which is particularly impressive considering the estate's production is now nearly 5 million bottles per year spread across numerous properties in Sicily. Firriato is among the new entrants in the Etna, and those wines are among the highlights.