Any Italian wine lover has Sicilian wine tourism on their list. Wine tourism in Sicily is usually either surrounding Marsala, or the famous volcano of Mount Etna. 

In general, Sicily has had an internet buzz on for a while now. Sicily trending makes sense because Sicily is very much its own vibe. Sicily draws people from allover the world to explore its unique culture, beaches, ceramics, vibrant cities, architecture, history, food, and of course wines. 

The active volcano, Mount Etna, is one of the most famous parts of this incredible island. Located on the Northeast portion of Sicily, between the cities of Messina and Catania. It erupts often, is about 1200m high, and is home to some of the worlds most unique vineyards. 

You will either see Mount Etna, be destined to Mount Etna, or be told about Mount Etna. All across the world people have fallen in love with the wines of Etna. The region is specifically known for its dense, vitamin and mineral rich soil, making Etna wines that are specific, bold, and full of personalty. Many of these wines are thought to be of some of the best in the world. 

Sicilian red wines are ripe and rich with balanced acidity, and are most often crafted from Nero d’Avola, Perricone, Nerello Mascalese. Sicilys spicy whites are crafted from Carricante, Catarratto, Inzolia, and Grillo. 

Etna DOC is the denomination around the active volcano for the wines of the volcanic area. 

Etna DOC’s: 

• Etna D.O.C. Bianco: Carricante grape (with a minimum of 60%), but Catarratto (no more than 40%) These wines tend to be quite medium bodied; straw yellow, often tastes of apples, pears and citrus.

• Etna D.O.C. Rosso: Nerello Mascalese grape (with a minimum 80%), and usually Nerello Cappuccio or Mantellato (with no more than 20%). Rosato also has the same regulations. These wines tend to be quite robust, full, fresh yet acidic. 

• Etna D.O.C. Spumante: Nerello Mascalese grape (with a minimum of 60%) and up to 40% of other non-aromatic approved Sicilian varieties.  

One thing I learned while exploring the Etna region is that there are sort of  “2 sides of Etna”. Let’s look at the Etna region to help you better plan your wine tasting adventure.

Most of the wine growing area arcs around the eastern side of the volcano. The volcano is of course still active which largely influences the soils, but this area also gets full sun and and suns reflection from the sea. On the northeast side of Mount Etna, closer to the gorgeous town of Taormina, wineries are clustered with terraced vineyards. The vines usually planted in alberello or bush vine method. In recent years volcanic eruptions have layered the properties with intense amounts of ash and debris giving the landscapes a unique appearance. 

On the southeast, closer to Catania, you have another area of wineries. While this is all one wine region, the distance between wineries can be long so it is easier to focus on one area of the DOC at a time. 

Sicilian wines are usually completely natural, often unfiltered. Because of the climate and isolation of the island, the use of chemicals and vineyard treatments is quite uncommon. Some of the vines even date back pre-phylloxera! Tradition remains very important, both in vineyard care and wine making styles. All of these uniquely Sicilian attributes add to the wines characteristics and personality. 

Not only for wine tourism, Mount Etna deserves multiple days for exploration. Although it is an island, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and is actually much larger than one thinks to get around and see everything. 

Remember wine tastings are long, and you should book by appointment before hand. Try not to miss I Vigneri, Pietradolce, and Fischetti. 

Enjoy the wines of Mount Etna and let the Sicilian vibe take you away.