Planeta - Buonivini, Noto

Planeta - Buonivini, located in Noto, Sicily, is part of the renowned Planeta family’s expansive wine empire, which has played a pivotal role in transforming the image of Sicilian wines since the mid-1990s. Founded by the Planeta family, who have deep roots as grape growers, the business was revolutionised under the guidance of Diego Planeta and winemaker Carlo Corino. Carlo, an Italian trained in Australia, brought advanced warm-climate winemaking techniques to Sicily, allowing Planeta to capture the unique flavours and aromas of the island’s grapes. The winery quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach, particularly for barrel-aged Chardonnay, which defied Italian winemaking conventions of the time. Today, Planeta is known for its diverse portfolio that highlights both international varieties and Sicily’s indigenous grapes like Grecanico and Nero d’Avola.

Viticulture and winemaking at Planeta - Buonivini are marked by a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the family’s deep understanding of Sicily’s diverse terroirs. The vineyards in Noto benefit from the warm Mediterranean climate, with ample sunlight and well-drained soils that are ideal for growing high-quality grapes. The winery employs a range of modern techniques, including controlled fermentation and precise vineyard management, to ensure the expression of the grapes' full potential. Planeta’s approach to winemaking is characterised by their willingness to experiment, such as their use of oak ageing for white wines, which was unconventional in Italy at the time. This pioneering spirit has allowed Planeta to produce wines that are both expressive and elegant, capturing the essence of Sicilian viticulture while appealing to a global audience.

Planeta - Buonivini is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices across all aspects of their operations. The family has launched Planeta Terra, an environmental project focused on enhancing biodiversity, soil health, and reducing the ecological impact of their vineyards. They employ organic farming methods, avoid synthetic chemicals, and maintain natural vegetation cover to promote healthy vineyard ecosystems. Renewable energy sources and water management strategies further underline their commitment to sustainability. Planeta’s dedication to the environment is also reflected in their broader initiatives, such as creating wines on the slopes of Mount Etna and opening eco-conscious tourist experiences like La Foresteria resort, showcasing their ongoing mission to blend quality winemaking with environmental stewardship.