Discover Mount Etna’s Volcanic Wines

Explore Etna's vineyards

Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, is home to some of Sicily’s most unique wines. Its mineral-rich volcanic soil and high-altitude vineyards produce bold, expressive varietals like Nerello Mascalese, often compared to Pinot Noir, and Carricante, a crisp white with vibrant acidity. Many vines here are over a century old, grown on steep terraces carved into the mountainside.

Wine production on Mount Etna dates back to ancient times, with techniques refined over centuries. Today, the region is renowned for its terroir-driven wines, shaped by the volcano’s unpredictable activity. Let’s dive into what makes wine tasting on Mount Etna an experience like no other.

Must-try wines on Mount Etna

Bring a taste of Etna back home with wines that capture the essence of this volcanic paradise. Here are the top selections to consider:

1. Nerello Mascalese

Profile: Bold and complex, with notes of red berries, spices, and earthy minerals.

Why it’s special: Known for its elegance and aging potential, this red wine thrives in volcanic soils.

Must-see wineries:

• Benanti Winery: Known for its elegant and age-worthy Nerello Mascalese.
• Tenuta delle Terre Nere: Famous for single-vineyard wines from old vines.

Where to buy:

• Purchase directly from wineries or local enotecas in Taormina and Catania.
• Available internationally through specialty wine retailers like Vinatis or Decántalo.
• Cost: Prices range from €20–€50 per bottle, depending on vintage and producer.

2. Carricante

Profile: A crisp white wine with citrusy notes, green apple, and a smoky minerality.

Why it’s special: Indigenous to Mount Etna, Carricante reflects the purity and freshness of high-altitude vineyards.

Must-see wineries:

• Barone di Villagrande: Specializes in crisp, mineral-driven Carricante.
• Benanti Winery: Offers a refined expression of this indigenous white grape.

Where to buy:

• Easily found at winery shops or regional wine stores across Sicily.
• Online platforms like Vivino often stock premium Carricante.
• Cost: Expect to pay between €18–€40 per bottle.

3. Etna Rosso & Etna Bianco DOC

Profile: Balanced blends that highlight the synergy of volcanic terroir and traditional Sicilian winemaking.

Why it’s special: Recognized as the region's signature wines, these DOC labels represent Etna’s winemaking excellence.

Must-See wineries:

• Gambino Vini: Offers balanced DOC blends showcasing Etna’s diversity.
• Tornatore Winery: Known for their highly rated Etna Rosso and Bianco.

Where to buy:

• Available at wineries, Sicilian enotecas, and international wine retailers.
• Cost: Prices range from €15–€35 per bottle, making them a great value for DOC wines.

4. Passito di Sicilia

Profile: Sweet and aromatic, with flavors of dried apricots, honey, and almonds.

Why it’s special: A perfect dessert wine made using ancient drying techniques.

Must-see wineries:

• Feudo Vagliasindi: Renowned for its traditional sweet Passito wines.
  

Where to buy:

• Limited production, but often available at wineries or local Sicilian markets.
• Cost: Sweet wines like Passito are priced around €25–€60 per bottle, reflecting their artisanal nature.