Sicilian wine

Climate and soils in Sicily

The southeastern tip of Sicily lies further south than Tunis. Accordingly, the island can be very hot, and the grapes, especially in the interior, are regularly heated by winds from Africa. Irrigation is a necessity for half of Sicily's vineyards, especially those planted with international varieties. In fact, the climate is so dry that the vines require little pesticide protection against fungal diseases, making these areas almost ideal for organic viticulture. But the landscape can be greener in the interior, and the mountains in the northeast are typically snow-capped for several winter months. Mount Etna has an alpine climate. Sicily is also characterized by complex and highly diverse soils, ranging from volcanic on Mount Etna to sandy in Marsala and calcareous in Noto.

Historical viticulture in Sicily

In Sicily, the connection between historical and civilizational influences and wine culture is more evident than anywhere else in the wine world: virtually intact Greek temples, Roman mosaics, Crusader castles, and Moorish churches, along with a variety of native grape varieties. Winemaking here dates back to 800 BC. Almost 3,000 years later, in the mid-1990s, Sicily rivaled only Puglia for the title of Italy's most productive wine region, but the island has since opted for quality over quantity and focused on its own wine heritage.

Red grape varieties in Sicily

The native grape that has established Sicily's reputation abroad is Nero d'Avola (Avola is in the far southeast, with its own cru and the DOC Eloro), which typically produces rich, vibrantly fruity red wines. This popular grape has been planted throughout the island, but on the dazzling white chalky soils of Noto and Eloro, its wines can be impressively elegant and long-lasting. Another native grape, Frappato, is characterized by freshness, vitality, and delicate fruitiness. Even more interesting, however, is Nerello Mascalese, traditionally grown up to 1,000 meters on the slopes of Mount Etna, where a growing number of ambitious winemakers are braving the volcano's menacing sounds and very real eruptions. Etna, with its rich mix of different elevations and orientations, as well as densely planted century-old vines sprouting from soils containing solidified lava, has become a magnet for terroir-conscious winemakers. Nerello Cappuccio, a grape with slightly softer results, is also grown on Etna and blended with Nerello Mascalese. mixed.

White grape varieties in Sicily

The crisp Carricante makes Etna's signature white wine—Etna Bianco Superiore must comprise at least 80% of the grape and can only be produced in the commune of Milo, east of the peak. Catarratto is very different: the workhorse white wine grape of the West. The roving winemakers who arrived in the 1990s occasionally managed to make interesting wines from it, but more often from its partner Inzolia (the Ansonica of Tuscany) or the versatile Grillo, a key ingredient in Marsala. Sicily's classic fortified wine grows in the far west of the island, around Trapani, in vineyards cooled by sea breezes and influenced by Mount Erice. Marsala is a very distant cousin of Cream Sherry, invented by British settlers to bolster Nelson's fleet when it was stationed in Naples. For much of the 20th century, Marsala seemed to be in deep crisis, to be found only in the kitchen. Grillo is particularly good at preserving its acidity in the harshest heat, and its salty, mineral-forward dry white wines are becoming increasingly appreciated.

Sweet wine in Sicily

The famous Moscato of Sicily is usually strong and sweet. The most famous Moscatos on the island, made from Muscat of Alexandria, are called Zibibbo here. The delicious Moscato di Pantelleria, a volcanic island closer to Tunisia than to Sicily, has enthusiastic admirers. Less well known are the luscious Malvasias of the Aeolian Islands off Sicily to the north. Wherever they grow, they are called Malvasia delle Lipari; one of the finest of these orange-scented elixirs.

FAQ about Sicilian wine

Is wine produced in Sicily?

Yes, wine is produced in Sicily. The island has a long history of wine production and is now a major wine region in Italy.

Is there good wine in Sicily?

Yes, Sicily produces a variety of high-quality wines. The region has evolved significantly in terms of quality and variety in recent years.

What wine do people drink in Sicily?

Various types of wine are drunk in Sicily, including Nero d'Avola, Grillo, Catarratto and other indigenous grape varieties.

Which famous wine comes from Sicily?

A famous wine from Sicily is the Nero d'Avola, which is considered one of the most famous indigenous red grape varieties in the region.

What is the name of the famous wine from Sicily?

A particularly well-known wine from Sicily is the Nero d'Avola, which is known for its depth and characteristic aromas.

What does Grillo wine taste like?

Grillo wine is typically dry and exhibits fruity aromas of citrus, apple, and herbs. It can also exhibit pleasant acidity and freshness.

Is Grillo wine dry?

Yes, Grillo wine is generally classified as dry.

What do you eat with Grillo wine?

Grillo wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, including seafood, fish, pasta with light sauces, salads, and lightly spiced dishes.

Which red wine is Sicily known for?

Sicily is known for red wines such as Nero d'Avola, which is considered one of the region's most prominent red grape varieties and is often appreciated for its fruitiness and structure.