A rare and exclusive variety grown in a few tens of hectares, it is best expressed in the red sands of Vittoria, not far from the sea. An aromatic and pleasant red like few others, a perfect synthesis between tradition and trend.
It is a fresh and elegant wine, with a superior structure to the white Don Pietro, included in the Don Pietro line. 7,000 bottles come out.
Still and dry red wine, vinified with 100% Nero d'Avola grapes, with a pleasant scent of wild berries with pleasant vegetal sensations, a long aromatic persistence and soft tannins.
From one of the oldest vines in the world, Moscato Bianco, our Passito di Noto is born. Passito is an ancient wine that becomes current with a modern drying system. Explosive aromas of exotic fruit, jasmine, candied citrus, it is both complex and easy to love. The ideal companion of the great Sicilian tradition of sweets and ice cream.
The red Etna Calderara Sottana by Girolamo Russo was born in the vineyards located in the Contrada Calderara Sottana district in Randazzo, in the extraordinary wine-growing panorama of Etna, a terroir particularly suited to the production of wines of great value, thanks to unique temperature ranges.
Girolamo Russo's Etna Rosso Feudo di Mezzo has still young and slightly rough tannins. Of an intense ruby red, it offers hints of ripe fruit, cherry, marasca cherry, aromatic herbs, balsamic essences and notes of vanilla and tobacco on the nose. On the palate it is soft, but with tannins still a little rough, with an excellent structure, a complex of great fullness of taste and persistence
Girolamo Russo's Etna Rosso Feudo di Mezzo has still young and slightly rough tannins. Of an intense ruby red, it offers hints of ripe fruit, cherry, marasca cherry, aromatic herbs, balsamic essences and notes of vanilla and tobacco on the nose. On the palate it is soft, but with tannins still a little rough, with an excellent structure, a complex of great fullness of taste and persistence
The Finimondo Nero d'Avola Sicilia DOC Pellegrino is a strong, soft and persuasive wine, with a deep red colour, it envelops and enchants in an embrace of fruity and floral aromas.
A prestigious red for collectors, ambassador of two Made in Italy excellences. With an intense ruby red color, Tancredi 2018 Limited Edition combines notes of red fruit, mulberry and blueberry, with balsamic notes and delicate hints of licorice and sweet tobacco. On the palate it expresses all its enveloping personality with perfectly integrated tannins and long persistence.
Prestigious 3-bottle wooden box, which turns into a table stand and a color box, with Vigna di Gabri 2017, Floramundi 2017, Sul Vulcano 2017.
The Materico Nerello Mascalese Terre Siciliane IGT is a fragrant and elegant red wine, made by Cantine Pellegrino, a company that, historically, aims to innovate the island's viticulture.
Ben Ryé Donnafugata is one of the most famous Sicilian passito wines in Italy and in the world, which has become a paradigm of Passito di Pantelleria. Its name in Arabic means "daughter of the wind", an epithet attributed to this Mediterranean island, struck by winds that blow on the bunches of grapes and on the crops, bringing with them intense and very characteristic aromas , the same ones we find in wine. The image that decorates the label is created by the designer Nicola Vitale and illustrates the work and effort of the winemakers in this area, illuminated by intense sunlight, with the 'dammuso', a typical architecture of the island in the background.
Prince of the enological renaissance of Sicily, Nero d'Avola is a native vine of great value. Initially widespread in the Syracuse area, it is now extended to all the wine-growing areas of the island. It is a medium-early variety that ripens around the first week of September and requires low-clayey soils and is sensitive to excessive drought and exposure to the sun. The type of training used is espalier, with an average planting density of 4,500 plants per hectare. Harvesting of the grapes at perfect aromatic and polyphenolic maturation, destemming and alcoholic fermentation with the skins for 6-8 days at 22-24°C, malolactic fermentation with selected bacteria, maturation for 6 months in French oak barriques.
This wine, 100% Frappato, expresses the nobility and richness of one of the oldest Sicilian vines. Frappato is among the southernmost red berried varieties in Europe. Its historic enographic site is Vittoria, the youngest city in the Ragusa area lying in the lower Ibleo plain. This vine is suitable for the production of red wines with low coloring intensity, typical of a young red wine.
Tinchitè: an abundance of liveliness. Wine obtained from Grillo grapes grown in our wineries located in the south-east of Sicily, in the province of Ragusa, and in the west, in the province of Agrigento, where the different environmental conditions allow us to obtain grapes with different aromatic styles. In fact, if on the one hand the proximity to the sea of the vineyards cultivated at the Ragusa company and the loose and warm soils allow for more fruity and fragrant wines to be obtained, on the other, the more clayey and fertile soils of the company located near Agrigento they give the grapes more concentration, ripeness, richness and volume. From the union of these two different styles of wine, the richness and fruitiness of our slightly sparkling wine is born.
IGT terre siciliane dal colore rosso intenso con riflessi violacei e bouquet etereo, ampio, intenso con sentori fruttati. Ideale se abbinato ad arrosti, carni alla griglia, selvaggina, formaggi di media stagionatura.
Il Sicilia Bianco Sole e Vento della Cantina Marco de Bartoli nasce da uve Grillo coltivate in vigneti situati nel comune di Samperi, nel cuore della Sicilia Occidentale, e con uve Zibibbo coltivate in vigneti collcati nel cuore dell'isola di Pantelleria.
il Sicilia Catarratto Lucido della Cantina Marco de Bartoli nasce in vigneti situati nel comune di Samperi, nel cuore della Sicilia Occidentale.
CVA's Grillo Fileno is the best white wine in Italy
The highest score ever, among the Italian white wines offered for tasting at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2022: Fileno, harvest 2021, Grillo in purity, is the best white wine in Italy. An extraordinary result for CVA, a small but prestigious wine cooperative in the Agrigento area.
A Nero d'Avola with intense and persistent aromas that can be discovered for its modernity and charm. A classy wine, which surprises for its harmony and pleasantness, capable of revealing the authentic traits of the prince of Sicilian natives.
A Nero d'Avola of great harmony, our spearhead. Surprising in its aromas, precious for the elegance and silkiness of its tannins. An exciting wine.
Main vine of our territory, fruity and soft, with typical light spicy notes.
A Nero d'Avola, modern with its characteristic fruity notes and black pepper; harmonious, balanced, pleasantly tannic.
A Nero d'Avola, modern with its characteristic fruity notes and black pepper; harmonious, balanced, pleasantly tannic.
The history of Etna is dotted with historical eruptions that have shaped its shape. Legendary that of 1614, which lasted 10 years, the longest of all time, stopped right on the border of the Sciaranuova vineyards. A strongly evocative name for our Cru dell'Etna based on Nerello Mascalese. Black soils at high altitude give an elegant, fine and balanced style.
Nero d'Avola Noto DOC Santa Cecilia is the flagship wine of the Planeta winery. A Nero d'Avola vinified in purity, the result of a careful selection of the best vineyards for the production of an excellent wine.
From one of the oldest vines in the world, Moscato Bianco, our Passito di Noto is born. Passito is an ancient wine that becomes current with a modern drying system. Explosive aromas of exotic fruit, jasmine, candied citrus, it is both complex and easy to love. The ideal companion of the great Sicilian tradition of sweets and ice cream.
Nero d'Avola Noto DOC Santa Cecilia is the flagship wine of the Planeta winery. A Nero d'Avola vinified in purity, the result of a careful selection of the best vineyards for the production of an excellent wine.
A denomination that has its roots in antiquity when the Mamertines produced this wine described by Pliny and loved by Julius Caesar in Milazzo. Nero d'Avola and Nocera, 12 months of aging in 35 hl barrels. The small winery is located a few steps from the sea and is surrounded by the spectacular vineyards we planted in Capo Milazzo. The Barone Lucifero Foundation, owner of the fund, uses part of the proceeds for socio-cultural and recreational activities for children in the Milazzo area.
Noble variety grown in a few hectares in the lands of Messina overlooking the sea and history. La Baronia, in Capo Milazzo, is an absolutely spectacular vineyard surrounded by the sea, centuries-old olive trees and under the gaze of the islands. Marine red, with scents of Mediterranean scrub, myrtle and scrubland. The Barone Lucifero Foundation, owner of the fund, uses part of the proceeds for socio-cultural and recreational activities for children in the Milazzo area.
The history of the Volcano is dotted with eruptions that have shaped its shape. Legendary that of 1614, which lasted 10 years, the longest in historical times: the vines that produce this wine grow right above this flow. A small parcel hosts the Pinot Noir which has been grown in the area for centuries, albeit marginally. The result is an absolutely original version of the noble variety.
The Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico Dorilli represents for us the quintessence of this noble wine. It comes from a careful selection of the vineyards that surround the beautiful and unique Dorilli estate, named after the nearby river Dirillo, the landing place of the brave Aeneas. A fine and elegant expression, the result of the union of the noble Nero d'Avola with the Frappato di Vittoria, the Iblean grape variety par excellence, slightly marked by the aging in wood. A limited production for those who love small Italian denominations, history and testimony of our land.
The Finimondo Nero d'Avola Sicilia DOC Pellegrino is a strong, soft and persuasive wine, with a deep red colour, it envelops and enchants in an embrace of fruity and floral aromas.
A Nero d'Avola with the energy and vivacity of youth, unmistakably Sicilian, capable of an inviting lightness that inspires casual combinations with simple and tasty dishes. Clayey/sandy soils, on a small plateau, host espalier-trained vines: but it is the breath of the nearby woodland vegetation that tempers the climate and gives Rossojbleo that vivacity and freshness that make it an alternative expression of the more classic Sicilian varietal.
La vinificazione avviene macerando l’uva passa ottenuta nel mosto di uve extramature fresche la cui seconda raccolta avviene la metà di Settembre con l’aggiunta di alcool per bloccare la fermentazione.
Plumbago - with a spontaneous flower of a beautiful purple color that grows in the woods surrounding the baglio and the Ulmo vineyards - is a pure Nero d'Avola. It comes from the old vineyard around the Orange Lake that gives us this soft and fruity version of this great Sicilian variety. Round tannins and perfectly dosed wood make it a wine of immediate pleasure. Ideal for Mediterranean cuisine based on vegetables and all types of meat.
Production area: Sambuca di Sicilia (AG), Sicily. Grapes and Vinification: Grillo. The refinement of the wine is carried out in stainless steel tanks. Color and Pairing: White, excellent with fresh cheeses and fish dishes.
Production area: Agrigento, Sicily. Grapes and Vinification: Nero dAvola. In French and American oak barriques for 18 months, in which refinement takes place. Released on the market only after at least 18 months of bottle aging. Color and Pairing: Red, excellent with meat dishes and long-aged cheeses.
In this unique and rare wine, the grapes of our Cru express themselves with their deepest character. The Etna Rosso Riserva contrada Zottorinoto cru is a wine with a brilliant garnet ruby color. On the nose the floral notes and Mediterranean herbs give breath to the hints of fruit among which blueberries, raspberries and blackberries stand out wrapped in a spice of vanilla and black tea. On the palate the body is velvety and enveloping, sapid in the length and relaxed in the noble and chiseled tannins, long persistence.
"L'Eterno" by Feudi del Pisciotto is a Pinot Noir that comes from the desire to combine the power of the Sicilian land with the intrinsic elegance of the original grape variety. The vinification foresees an aging of one year in new barriques, so as to embellish the typically floral and fruity olfactory bouquet with notes of tobacco and spices. The sip is round, full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a sapid finish on the finish
Outspoken Cabernet Sauvignon Sicily IGP Dei Principi di Spadafora. An extraordinary pure Sicilian wine, an organic Cabernet Sauvignon with an intense purple-red color and a rich, intense, fruity aroma. The taste is intense, fruity and clear aroma. full and round, soft and well present tannins.
Among the first pure Cabernet Sauvignon produced in Sicily. For his personality and originality he has been awarded many times over the years. Expresses the territory from which it comes: Corleone. With a purplish-red colour, it has a complex and persistent aroma, reminiscent of blackcurrant fruits and spices.
Obtained from Chardonnay grapes from low-yield vineyards. Fermented and left to mature in French oak barrels, it is a wine as elegant as it is powerful. Sinedie is a white wine but at the same time capable of a long aging in the bottle, if well kept in the cellar.
Born in 1989, the "Rosso Corleone" is perhaps among the first red wines that made Nero d'Avola known and appreciated in the world. Seductive, warm, full-bodied and professional wine. With an elegant and dry taste, it is a wine for the whole meal. It goes well with meat dishes, mixed grills, game and hard cheeses.
A prestigious red for collectors, ambassador of two Made in Italy excellences. \ n \ nWith an intense ruby red color, Tancredi 2018 Limited Edition combines notes of red fruit, mulberry and blueberry, with balsamic notes and delicate hints of licorice and sweet tobacco. On the palate it expresses all its enveloping personality with perfectly integrated tannins and long persistence.
Compact ruby red, the nose expresses beautiful notes of currant, plum and violet. A spicy trace, embellished with a balsamic hint of mint, opens to a wide, soft and elegant taste. The tannic texture is dense and well balanced by a certain freshness. Very long and vibrant, it closes with an infinite finish for persistence. For the whole meal, the “Sito dell'Ulmo” is an ideal red wine to accompany aged cheeses and meats.
A rare and exclusive variety grown in a few tens of hectares, it is best expressed in the red sands of Vittoria, not far from the sea. An aromatic and pleasant red like few others, a perfect synthesis between tradition and trend.
The Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico Dorilli represents for us the quintessence of this noble wine. It comes from a careful selection of the vineyards that surround the beautiful and unique Dorilli estate, named after the nearby river Dirillo, the landing place of the brave Aeneas. A fine and elegant expression, the result of the union of the noble Nero d'Avola with the Frappato di Vittoria, the Iblean grape variety par excellence, slightly marked by the aging in wood. A limited production for those who love small Italian denominations, history and testimony of our land.
La Segreta takes its name from the wood that surrounds our Ulmo vineyard. This young and fresh wine obtained mainly from Nero d'Avola grapes, flag of Sicily of wine, gains personality and style with the addition of international grapes. All the grapes are expertly cultivated in Planeta 's own vineyards. La Segreta is a versatile companion for everyday drinking, suitable for the most diverse occasions. It is a perfect approach to the Sicily of wine with its right relationship between quality and price, guaranteed by the patient work of the Planeta family, from the vineyard to the wine.
Today Nerello Mascalese is certainly one of the richest reds in charm, territorial expressiveness, as well as being endowed with great elegance and longevity over time, Etna is its throne and outside its borders it is hard to feel at ease.
Planeta 's Burdese is a full-bodied and structured Sicilian red wine based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, aged for 14 months in new barriques. It has an intense and deep character, with hints of fruit, leather, tobacco and spices. The sip is powerful and concentrated, with a long persistence
Santa Cecilia is our flagship wine from the most important Sicilian variety: Nero d'Avola. The long work of finding the best place to make a great wine with this variety led us to Noto, the place of origin of this variety where the DOC Noto stands, at the southern end of Sicily. With its white lands and its ancient vineyards it is the epicenter of the cultivation of Nero d'Avola. Santa Cecilia is an expression of elegance, power, balance and exaltation of the unique aromas of the Sicilian lands, and today a reference point for reds from Sicilian native grapes. Its name derives from that of our family: Planeta di Santa Cecilia.
Nero d'Avola - DOC Sicilia with an intense red color with violet reflections and an intense, sunny, complex bouquet, from which hints of black cherry and red fruit emerge. Ideal if paired with cold cuts, meat first courses, roasts, game and soft, semi-mature, seasoned cheeses, salmon.
Etna Rosso "A' Rina" is a soft and structured wine, enveloping and complex, aged in second and third passage barriques for 12 months. Elegant notes of ripe red fruit, cherries, leather and tobacco best express the terroir of the great Sicilian mountain
Etna Rosso Ripiddu Filippo Grasso is produced from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Mantellato grapes on the Etna volcanic soil and precisely on the North Slope of Etna, in the Randazzo area, in Contrada Calderara.
The Finimondo Nero d'Avola Sicilia DOC Pellegrino is a strong, soft and persuasive wine, with a deep red colour, it envelops and enchants in an embrace of fruity and floral aromas.
The Materico Nerello Mascalese Terre Siciliane IGT is a fragrant and elegant red wine, made by Cantine Pellegrino, a company that, historically, aims to innovate the island's viticulture.
Otherwise it is the traditional "house wine" of Menfi produced with the technique of perpetual aging in a single barrel, filled during the year and topped up with the new vintage at each harvest.
Kabir, with a bright straw yellow color, is characterized by a complex bouquet of tropical fruit (passion fruit), floral hints of orange blossom and delicate salty nuances. In the mouth the fruity and sweet notes echo, perfectly balanced by the fresh mineral vein. Good persistence with a spicy finish of pink pepper and nutmeg.
Kabir, with a bright straw yellow color, is characterized by a complex bouquet of tropical fruit (passion fruit), floral hints of orange blossom and delicate salty nuances. In the mouth the fruity and sweet notes echo, perfectly balanced by the fresh mineral vein. Good persistence with a spicy finish of pink pepper and nutmeg.
Ruby. The nose is expressed with hints of small red fruits, notes of undergrowth, spicy tones of cinnamon and black pepper and balsamic hints. On the palate it boasts a good structure, the tannins are well integrated and the persistence is excellent. Excellent in combination with risotto, red meats and game, it is also to be tried with legume soups.
Ruby. The nose is expressed with hints of small red fruits, notes of undergrowth, spicy tones of cinnamon and black pepper and balsamic hints. On the palate it boasts a good structure, the tannins are well integrated and the persistence is excellent. Excellent in combination with risotto, red meats and game, it is also to be tried with legume soups.
Elegant and bright ruby red color to the eye. The nose is broad and deep, with floral notes of violets and fruity references to currant that lead the way, then complemented by complex hints of flint, sweet tobacco and nutmeg. The taste is as refined and complex as the nose, distinctly mineral and important (but refined) in the tannic texture. Remarkable persistence. You will find it excellent together with the Peking duck, but also in combination with turkey in mushroom sauce there is really not bad.
Elegant and bright ruby red color to the eye. The nose is broad and deep, with floral notes of violets and fruity references to currant that lead the way, then complemented by complex hints of flint, sweet tobacco and nutmeg. The taste is as refined and complex as the nose, distinctly mineral and important (but refined) in the tannic texture. Remarkable persistence. You will find it excellent together with the Peking duck, but also in combination with turkey in mushroom sauce there is really not bad.
The palace illustrated on the label is the one where Queen Maria Carolina took refuge on the run from Naples and was the favorite home of the writer Tomasi di Lampedusa in Santa Margherita Belice. Gabriella Anca Rallo captures the image of it and embeds it in a "Thousand and One Nights" sky full of stars and full of promise. First vintage: 1995. The grapes, harvested in September, are vinified in steel, with maceration on the skins for about 12 days, at a temperature of 26-30 ° C. After malolactic fermentation, the wine passes mainly in French oak barriques for 14-16 months, and then refines in the bottle for at least 24 months. The Mille e una Notte is characterized by a ruby red color. The nose offers an enveloping bouquet in which notes of tobacco and cocoa stand out. On the palate the olfactory scents are repeated, on a fruity background of black mulberries and cherries. The wine is also full and complex, with elegant tannins. Perfect to accompany red meats, pork and lamb, it is ideal in combination with fish-based dishes.
With a pale pink colour, Sul Vulcano rosato has delicate floral scents (wisteria) accompanied by pleasant fruity notes of wild strawberries, peach and pink grapefruit. It stands out for its freshness and refined minerality.
Bright ruby red color to the eye. The olfactory bouquet is elegant, with initial fruity hints of strawberry and currant complemented by pleasant floral notes. Subsequently, nuances of cinnamon and nutmeg further embellish the picture on the nose. The tasting continues on the same path traced by the sense of smell, proving to be harmonious in the tannic texture, balanced and persistent.
Excellent with second courses based on meat, it is to be tried with the shoulder of Nebrodi black pig with aromatic herbs.
Dea Vulcano, with a light ruby red color, offers a refined bouquet with fruity notes of wild strawberry and cherry, light hints of aromatic herbs (sage) and spicy notes of black pepper and cinnamon. On the palate it is fresh and fragrant, soft with well integrated tannins and a balanced and juicy finish.
With a ruby red color, Contesa dei Venti 2021 stands out for its floral scents of lavender. The fragrant bouquet is enriched with notes of red fruits (cherry and raspberry) together with hints of spices (sage and black pepper) and balsamic juniper. In the mouth it is fresh and harmonious, with a pleasant return of fruity notes and a soft and enveloping tannin; the finish is persistent and elegant.
The Cerasuolo di Vittoria “Floramundi” is a pleasant medium-bodied red wine, vinified and aged in steel. It is characterized by fragrant and delicate aromas of cherry, flowers and small red fruits, with a subtle spiciness. On the palate it is juicy and smooth, accompanied by very fine tannins
With a bright pink colour, Lumera 2022 offers a large and fragrant bouquet with notes of wild strawberries and pomegranate, combined with delicate floral scents. In the mouth it is fresh and tasty with a good structure and a pleasant persistence of fruity notes.
Straw yellow, the nose expresses a beautiful olfactory profile composed of notes of yellow pulp fruit, peach and apricot, vanilla and butter. In the mouth it is round, enveloping, structured and well balanced thanks to a good acid component. It closes with a nice finish, of excellent persistence.
For the whole meal, the "Chiarandà" is a white wine that goes well with typical Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla Norma, flans of
Discover the secrets of Sicilian wines: A journey through the winemaking tradition of Southern Italy
Sicily is one of the richest regions of Italy both for its history and for its winemaking tradition. Sicilian wines are among the most appreciated in the world and are famous for their quality. In this article we will discover what the secrets of these delicacies are and how to enjoy them to the fullest.
Sicilian Wines: An ancient and rich history
The tradition of wine production in Sicily dates back to the Greco-Roman period, when the island was rich in native varieties. Over the centuries, the production of Sicilian wines has remained at the heart of the region's culture and economy. Today, Sicilian wines are famous all over the world for their unique quality.
Sicilian wines: variety and characteristics
There are numerous varieties of Sicilian wines. The most famous are Nero d'Avola, Nerello Mascalese, Frappato and Grecanico. These wines are characterized by a great aromatic complexity: hints of red fruits, spices, flowers and vanilla. Nero d'Avola is an intense, full-bodied red wine, while Nerello Mascalese is lighter and fruitier. Frappato is a light and aromatic rosé wine, while Grecanico is a fresh and fruity white wine.
How to choose the right wine
Choosing the right wine comes down to personal preferences and the occasion. For example, if you want to drink a high quality red wine, then you should opt for a Nero d'Avola. If you want a lighter and fruitier wine, you can choose a Nerello Mascalese. For a white wine, Grecanico is a great choice.
How to serve a Sicilian wine
To enjoy a Sicilian wine to the fullest, it must be served at a temperature of 18-20°C. It is advisable to serve red wines in fairly large glasses, with a wider base and a narrower top. White wines, on the other hand, are served in smaller glasses with a narrower base and wider top.
The right combination
Each wine has its own ideal pairing. For example, Nero d'Avola is a very versatile wine and goes well with meat-based dishes, such as grilled steak for example. Nerello Mascalese, on the other hand, goes best with fish or vegetable dishes. Frappato is a wine that goes well with lighter dishes, such as a mixed salad. Grecanico is a wine that goes well with fish or vegetable dishes.
5 tips for Sicilian wines
1. Choose a quality wine. Sicily is full of excellent quality wines, so choose a product from a reliable producer.
2. Taste more wines. Taste multiple Sicilian wines to find out which one you like best.
3. Store wine well. Store Sicilian wines in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.
4. Choose a right match. Pair Sicilian wines with the right dishes to get a unique taste experience.
5. Don't be shy. Don't hesitate to drink Sicilian wine and experiment with new varieties.
Discovering the secrets of Sicilian wines is a unique experience. Sicily is one of the richest regions of Italy and Sicilian wines are among the finest in the world. In this article we have explored the history of these wines, their characteristics, how to choose and serve a Sicilian wine and how to pair it with the right dishes. By following these tips you will be able to enjoy these delicacies to the fullest and discover the secrets of Sicilian wines.
Denomination Wines of Sicily
Sicily is a region famous all over the world for its wine production. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, the presence of volcanoes and the richness of the soil, the island is able to produce some of the most appreciated wines in the world. In this article we will explore the main denominations of Sicilian wines, their vines and their organoleptic characteristics, to discover the excellence of Sicilian wine production.
Introduction to wine production in Sicily
The production of wine in Sicily has very ancient roots, dating back to Greek and Roman times. The region boasts a great variety of soils, from the volcanoes of Etna and the Aeolian Islands to the hills of the hinterland, which allow for the cultivation of numerous native and international vines. Thanks to the use of innovative techniques and attention to quality, Sicilian wine production is constantly growing, offering the market high quality wines, capable of satisfying every palate.
The main denominations of Sicilian wines
The denominations of wines of Sicily are divided into four main categories: Denomination of Controlled Origin (DOC), Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin (DOCG), Typical Geographical Indication (IGT) and Table Wines. Let's see in detail the characteristics of each one.
Denomination of Controlled Origin (DOC)
The denomination of controlled origin (DOC) is a quality mark that is assigned to wines that meet specific production criteria. In Sicily there are 23 DOCs, among which Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Moscato di Pantelleria and Etna Rosso stand out.
Cerasuolo di Vittoria
Cerasuolo di Vittoria is a red wine produced in the south-eastern part of the island, in the province of Ragusa. The wine is produced with grapes from the Nero d'Avola and Frappato vine, in variable percentages, and has an intense ruby red colour, a fruity aroma and a dry and soft flavour. It goes perfectly with red meats, cured meats and aged cheeses.
Muscat of Pantelleria
Moscato di Pantelleria is a sweet wine produced on the island of Pantelleria, located southwest of Sicily. The wine is produced with grapes from the Moscato di Alessandria vine, locally called Zibibbo, and has an intense golden yellow colour, an intense and aromatic bouquet and a sweet and soft flavour. It goes perfectly with sweets and desserts.
Etna Red
Etna Rosso is a red wine produced on the slopes of Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. This wine is mainly produced with grapes from the native Nerello Mascalese vine, which grows on volcanic and high altitude soils.
What is Sicily's most famous wine?
A: Sicily's most famous wine is Etna Rosso, a red wine produced on the slopes of Etna.
Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin (DOCG)
The denomination of controlled and guaranteed origin (DOCG) is the maximum expression of the quality of Italian wines. In Sicily there is only one DOCG, the Cerasuolo di Vittoria. This dry red wine is produced in the Vittoria area, in the province of Ragusa, with grapes of the Nero d'Avola and Frappato vine in variable percentages. The wine has a ruby red colour, a fruity aroma and a soft and persistent flavour. It goes perfectly with red meats, cured meats and aged cheeses.
Typical Geographical Indication (IGT)
The Typical Geographical Indication (IGT) identifies wines produced in a specific geographical area and which have some typical characteristics. In Sicily there are four IGTs: Terre Siciliane, Salina, Val di Mazara and Alcamo. IGT wines can be produced with international grape varieties, such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but also with native varieties.
Table wines
Table wines are wines produced in Sicily that do not fall into the DOC, DOCG or IGT categories. Despite this, many of them are of the highest quality, produced with native grapes and according to traditional methods. Among the best known are Nero d'Avola and Grillo.
Sicily is a region with a great winemaking tradition, which has been appreciated all over the world for the quality of its wines. Thanks to the presence of volcanoes, the Mediterranean climate and the variety of the terrain, the island is able to produce wines of the highest quality, capable of satisfying every palate. From DOC to IGT, from white wines to red wines, Sicilian wine production is a real winemaking excellence.
FAQs
What are the native vines of Sicily?
Among the main native vines of Sicily are Nero d'Avola, Frappato, Inzolia, Grillo and Zibibbo.
How many DOC wines are there in Sicily?
In Sicily there are 23 DOC wines.
What are the main pairings of Sicilian wines?
The red wines of Sicily go perfectly with red meats, cured meats and aged cheeses, while the white wines are ideal with fish dishes, seafood and fresh cheeses.
What is the difference between DOC and DOCG?
The main difference between DOC and DOCG is that DOCG guarantees a superior quality of wine, with even stricter production criteria and more frequent controls.
What are the best known wines of Sicily?
Among the best known wines of Sicily are Etna Rosso, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Nero d'Avola and Grillo.