2022 COS Pithos Bianco, Sicily

The 2022 Pithos Bianco, a varietal Grecanico, is floral and exotic, mixing tropical flowers with chamomile, early grey, stone dust and nectarines. Lifted and wiry in feel, its brisk acidity and tart orchard fruits saturate the palate. Hints of sour citrus dry the mouth, but the 2022 maintains a lovely freshness, closing with persistent notes of kiwi and sage. This is sure to be a polarizing wine.

89 points Eric Guido vinous.com

COS Pithos Bianco from Sicily is a unique and captivating white wine that perfectly represents the island’s commitment to natural winemaking. Crafted by the COS winery, renowned for its organic and biodynamic farming practices, this wine is made with minimal intervention, allowing the true character of the Sicilian terroir to shine through. The Pithos Bianco is a blend of native Sicilian varieties, including Grecanico, a grape that thrives in the region’s warm Mediterranean climate, known for producing wines that are both aromatic and full of character.

The fruit for the Pithos Bianco is sourced from organically farmed vineyards, where the combination of volcanic soils and a hot climate allows the grapes to develop rich, concentrated flavors while maintaining refreshing acidity. What sets this wine apart is the traditional winemaking technique used—fermentation takes place in large terracotta amphorae (known as “pithos”), which imparts a unique texture and complexity to the wine. The skin contact during fermentation adds depth and structure, giving the wine a slightly orange hue and enhancing its aromatic profile.

In the glass, Pithos Bianco displays a golden amber color with hints of orange, reflecting its skin contact. The nose is a beautiful combination of citrus fruits, ripe peaches, and green apple, with delicate floral notes and a touch of herbs and spices. There’s also a distinct minerality, characteristic of the volcanic soils of Sicily. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a creamy texture and lively acidity, balanced by a slightly earthy, savory note from the amphora aging. The fruit flavors are fresh and vibrant, with citrus, stone fruit, and a touch of honeycomb, while the finish is long and lingering, with a light tannin structure adding complexity and intrigue.

Pithos Bianco is incredibly versatile with food. It pairs wonderfully with fresh seafood, grilled fish, or pasta with light sauces. It also complements Mediterranean dishes like roasted vegetables, salads, or even slightly spicy cuisine. This wine is perfect for those looking to explore natural wines with a bit of history and tradition behind them, offering both a unique experience and a reflection of the land from which it originates.