Sicily · Mount Etna
Wines born on a volcano
Mount Etna, on the east coast of Sicily, is the highest active volcano in Europe. On its slopes, between black lava stones and old dry-stone walls, grow some of the most exciting wines in Italy today. They are fresh, mineral and elegant: not what most people expect from sunny Sicily.
A unique place for vines
Etna became a DOC in 1968: the first in Sicily and one of the oldest in Italy. The vineyards grow between about 450 and 1,100 metres above sea level, on volcanic soils made of decomposed lava, ash and sand. These soils are rocky, drain fast and are poor in nutrients, so the vines produce little, but with great concentration and a typical salty, smoky minerality. Altitude brings cool nights, which keep the wines fresh.
Grapes found almost nowhere else
- Nerello Mascalese (at least 80% of Etna Rosso and Rosato): pale in colour but rich in perfume and fine tannins. It is often compared to Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo.
- Nerello Cappuccio: adds colour and softness.
- Carricante (at least 60% of Etna Bianco): the great white grape of the volcano, with citrus, white flowers and a salty, mineral finish.
For the fish of Никулден
On 6 December Bulgaria celebrates St. Nicholas, patron of fishermen, and the table is dedicated to fish, traditionally carp. Etna Bianco is a perfect match: its freshness cuts through the richness of baked fish, and its saltiness recalls the sea. If you prefer a softer wine, an Etna Rosato is delicious with grilled fish and vegetables. Etna Rosso, light and elegant, works with tuna, salmon or the meat courses of the evening.
 Etna Bianco 2020 – Cottanera Fresh, salty and mineral: the white for the fish. €22.80 Buy |
 Etna Rosato 2022 – Tenuta delle Terre Nere Nerello Mascalese in pink: delicate and savoury. €29.80 Buy |
 Etna Rosato “Sul Vulcano” 2021 – Donnafugata Floral and fresh, from a great Sicilian family. €28.10 Buy |
 Etna Rosso 2018 – Tenuta delle Terre Nere Perfumed, fine tannins, a red you can drink with fish. €32.30 Buy |
Serve Etna Bianco at 10–12 °C, the Rosato at 10–12 °C and the Rosso slightly cool, at 15–16 °C. For a fish recipe, try our oven-baked sea bass. Read also the Sicilian story of Donnafugata.
Sources
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