Etna Wine: Sicily's Volcanic Jewel
In the abundant landscape of Italian wines, Etna stands out with its unique personality. Nestled on the slopes of Europe's highest active volcano, this extraordinary terroir gives birth to red and white wines of surprising finesse, balancing minerality and freshness.
A Distinctive Terroir: Etna and its Volcanic Slopes
The Etna vineyard extends mainly on the northern, eastern, and southeastern flanks of the volcano, between 400 and 1,000 meters altitude. These soils composed of ash, lava, basalt, and black sand give the wines a unique structure, often described as saline, taut, and mineral.
The volcano's exceptional geographical situation — close to the sea but at altitude — allows for a significant temperature range between day and night. The result: slow ripening, well-preserved natural acidity, and wines with a rare elegance for a southern region.
The Star Grape Varieties: Nerello Mascalese and Carricante
Etna red wine is essentially based on Nerello Mascalese, an indigenous grape variety that rivals Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo. It produces structured but refined wines, marked by aromas of cherry, violet, white pepper, cold ash, or garrigue.
It is sometimes blended with Nerello Cappuccio, which adds a bit more roundness and color.
For whites, Carricante reigns supreme. It produces taut, lemony, sometimes slightly smoky wines, perfect companions for seafood.
Etna Rosso: A Singular Style Balancing Freshness, Tension, and Minerality
Etna Rosso seduces with its balance: a fine tannic framework, straight acidity, and complex, often floral aromatics. It's a wine that is simultaneously digestible, distinguished, and slender, capable of aging gracefully.
It sometimes evokes Burgundy, Barolo, or Jura... while asserting its own identity, born from volcanic rock.
Etna Bianco: Purity and Elegance at the Summit
Less known but equally remarkable, the Etna Bianco appellation deserves a special place among great Sicilian white wines. Mainly produced from the Carricante grape variety, it seduces with its vivacity, beautiful acidity, and sharp minerality.
A Recent Renaissance
Long forgotten, the Etna vineyard has experienced a true revival over the past twenty years. A new generation of local winemakers, joined by some big names from elsewhere, is restoring this region to its former glory.
Recognition is there: Etna wines are among the most coveted Italian wines.
Discover at Vinodelice: Giovanni Rosso, Etna Rosso & Etna Bianco
Among the emblematic cuvées of this renaissance, we invite you to discover the wines of the Giovanni Rosso estate, located in the northern zone of the volcano.
Its Etna Rosso seduces with its finesse, minerality, and notes of sweet spices. Its Etna Bianco, equally expressive, offers a lively and taut profile, a perfect reflection of great Sicilian whites.
To be enjoyed with Mediterranean cuisine, grilled vegetables, or simply among lovers of fine bottles with strong character.
Want to explore other volcanic terroirs? Don't miss our next article dedicated to volcanic wines from around the world!
