Blog: Wine from Etna | Classic

Etna is not only the highest active volcano in Europe, but also one of the most interesting wine regions in Italy. The growing area covers the entire mountain, which is located in Sicily, and offers a unique combination of climatic conditions and soil characteristics. Viticulture on Etna has a long history, dating back to ancient times when the Greek colonists planted the first vines.

The climate on Etna is characterized by great differences in temperature due to the altitude of the mountain and its proximity to the sea. While the higher altitudes are cool and often covered by snow, the lower regions have a Mediterranean climate. The soils are volcanic in origin and rich in minerals, which gives the wines a special minerality.

The most famous grape variety of the region is the Nerello Mascalese, which is a red grape used for the production of red wines. It has been native to the region for centuries and has adapted perfectly to the climatic and geological conditions. However, there are other varieties, such as Carricante and Catarratto, which are used for white wines.

Vineyards on Etna are mostly terraced, as the steep slopes make it difficult to work the vineyards evenly. The winemakers often use traditional methods and pay attention to sustainable cultivation in order to preserve the unique character of the wines.

In recent years, Etna viticulture has received increasing attention from wine lovers and critics around the world. The wines are known for their elegance, finesse and minerality and are often referred to as the 'Burgundy of the South'. The Etna wine region thus offers not only an impressive landscape, but also a fascinating wine tradition worth discovering. - Gerardo [TS04/23]