Founded in 1985 by the Planeta family, Planeta has become one of Sicily’s most influential modern wineries, playing a significant role in transforming the island’s reputation from bulk wine production to premium, terroir-driven fine wine. The family has been involved in agriculture in Sicily for 17 generations, and today the estate manages vineyards across several of the island’s most important wine-growing areas, including Menfi, Capo Milazzo, Noto, Etna and Vittoria.

The Planeta Chardonnay is one of Sicily’s most iconic white wines and was first produced in 1995 from vineyards in the Menfi DOC area. It helped demonstrate that Sicily’s warm Mediterranean climate could produce world-class Chardonnay with both richness and freshness. The wine is sourced primarily from the Ulmo and Maroccoli vineyards, where elevation, coastal influences and mineral-rich soils provide balance to the naturally generous character of Chardonnay grown in southern Sicily.

The 2021 vintage shows the signature Planeta Chardonnay style: a balance between opulence and freshness. Aromas of pineapple, ripe peach, yellow apple and citrus are layered with vanilla, toasted almond, pastry and subtle saline notes. On the palate, the wine is generous and creamy, with well-integrated oak, balanced acidity and a long mineral finish. Unlike heavily oaked Chardonnay styles, Planeta maintains freshness through its Sicilian coastal influence and careful vineyard selection.

" The wine displays aromas of vanilla, pineapple and salted butter, with floral notes adding freshness. The palate shows ripe pineapple, lemon and apple flavours balanced by nutty, saline characteristics, creating a rich yet refreshing finish. " -- Wine Enthusiast

" Decanter described the wine as a powerful yet elegant Sicilian Chardonnay, showing pineapple, melon, warm peach, white flowers, citrus and vanilla spice from oak ageing. The palate combines richness with freshness and precision. " -- Decanter 

" The wine shows aromas of grilled lemon, candied pineapple, honeysuckle, caramel and pastry crust, followed by a full, creamy palate with layered fruit, subtle salinity and a long finish. " -- James Suckling