What is wine to Italy? It’s not just a great accompaniment to meals – it is, without exaggeration, a vital part of life and culture. Italians in general, and Sicilians in particular, revere wine as more than a drink — it’s a history made of stories.
A story of family, as winemaking often reunites generations. A story of friendship, because it is hard to imagine a heartfelt gathering without a good bottle of wine.
A story of love, as the taste of fine wine is often tied to first romantic dates. So, how to make great wine a part of your Sicilian travel story? Explore it with us in this article.
In Sicily, winemaking is an act of everyday life. Many of the island’s vineyards have been passed down through families for generations, with techniques refined over time and centuries.
It’s not uncommon to see small, family-run wineries where traditions remain unchanged, from the harvesting of grapes to the aging process in antique cellars. These families don’t just produce wine—they live by it, with dedication, hard work, and their deep connection to the land.
Their wine culture reflects this easygoing, relaxed Sicilian pace: meals can take hours, and sipping a glass of wine isn’t rushed — it’s savored, mostly paired with traditional dishes that enhance the wine’s full character.
Nero d’Avola
Nero d’Avola, one of Sicily’s most famous red wines, is bold, full-bodied, with a taste of cherry and spice.
For an authentic and affordable experience, visit Planeta Ulmo, a family-run winery near Sambuca di Sicilia, where you can enjoy a vineyard tour and taste their award-winning Nero d’Avola.
Etna Rosso
Produced on the slopes of Mount Etna, this red wine is made from Nerello Mascalese grapes and reflects the volcanic terroir with its mineral-rich taste.
Head to Barone di Villagrande, a historic estate with sweeping views of the Etna. Their guided tastings often include pairings with local cheeses, offering a perfectly-rounded experience.
Sparkling Wines on Mount Etna
The volcanic soil of Sicily is also ideal for sparkling wines, particularly those made in the méthode champenoise. For an exquisite experience, try the sparkling wines at Tasca d’Almerita.
Situated in the countryside, this winery offers tastings in a stunning setting where every glass feels like a beautiful celebration.
For the ultimate indulgence, consider staying at the luxury resort in Sicily. This beautiful resort offers curated wine experiences, from exclusive wine tastings to gourmet dinners paired with the island’s finest vintages.
Marsala
Marsala is another Sicilian classic, a fortified wine much used in cooking but delightful on its own. For a deep dive into this historic wine, visit the Florio Winery in Marsala.
Their tours offer a glimpse into the wine’s history and production and end with tastings in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.
A wine route through Sicily is not only a tasting tour but an immersion into the culture, history, and dolce vita of the island.
Every sip tells a story about Sicily’s land and Sicilian themselves, making the Sicilian wine tour sure to leave you with memories as rich and complex as its flavors.
