Sicily - Italy

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Although it is very dry, the island still produces a lot of wine. With an annual production of over 5 million hectoliters, Sicily is even one of the largest wine producers in Italy. The island naturally has a reputation for being hot and arid, but that's not the case everywhere. The active volcano Etna rises to over 3,000 meters, and its peaks are snow-capped, offering skiing opportunities. The Etna region has a climate more reminiscent of northern Italy.

The wines are true mountain wines, and the grapes grow up to an altitude of 700 meters on Etna. Because phylloxera doesn't occur on volcanic soil, you'll find very old grapevines here, even 110 years old. The grapes are therefore not grafted onto American vines. The microclimate and soil here are very special. The soil is rich in volcanic ash, lava, pumice, and minerals, which provide unique nutrients. The grape varieties grown on Etna are Nerelle Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio (red), and Carricante and Cataratto (white).

Etna - Benanti Winery

Benanti, a family-run, exclusive winery located on the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, is one of the most prominent producers of fine wines in Italy.

Wine has been produced by the family for generations. BENANTI proudly describes itself as an indigenous winery. Local family, local people, local grape varieties, local pride and values. A true passion, to be shared by anyone who wants to explore the world of Etna and its fine, elegant wines.

Their wines are delicious, feel free to visit Wijnhuis Benanti for a wine tasting and don't forget to take the tour of the vineyard and the old villa.

Etna - Nicosia Winery

In 1898, Francesco Nicosia, the great-grandfather of the current owner, decided to open his first wine shop in Trecastagni, on the eastern slope of Mount Etna. This was the golden age of Etna wines, which—even then—were renowned and appreciated throughout Europe for their minerality and "volcanic" character. Towards the end of the twentieth century, however, the family's fortunes gained momentum, thanks to the tenacity, courage, and innovative spirit of Carmelo Nicosia, the current owner. By investing and expanding the vineyards, this winery has become one of the leading players in Sicilian wine in Italy and the rest of the world.

Nicosia is a dynamic, modern, and efficient family business that looks to the future without forgetting tradition. They make wine with complete respect for the environment, emphasizing the best indigenous varieties and international cultivars best adapted to Sicily. They promote the finest raw materials by selecting the finest grapes and devoting immense care to their cellar work. A long and exciting journey toward quality, producing wines that represent the best in Sicilian oenology.

This winery also has an Osteria where you can enjoy delicious food and the fine wines of Nicosia . Feel free to stop by for dinner, but reservations are required.

A great tip for a few nights in the Etna area: Scatitti House . A simple but very clean house with panoramic views, and the owner is incredibly friendly.