If in recent years the wines of Etna have established themselves globally among specialists in the sector, it is thanks to its unique terroir: a combination of elements – microclimate, soil, vines and human intervention – that have transformed this area into a territory with a strong oenological vocation.
A territory with a unique microclimate generated by extreme temperature variations. If the latitude is African - Catania is at the same latitude as the northern tip of Tunisia - the altitude is Alpine: the vine on Etna, which at 3,340 m above sea level is the highest active volcano in Europe, is cultivated up to 1,300 meters above sea level. In a limited geographical area, therefore, Mediterranean and mountain climates coexist. And if in winter, especially on the northern side, temperatures can drop below zero, in summer they can exceed 40 °C, with a day-night excursion that reaches 30 °C.
Then there is the soil. On the slopes of Etna, which has been rumbling continuously for at least 2,700 years, craters, caves and cracks have formed, thick layers of ash and lapilli have been deposited, thousands of lava flows have stretched out, enriching this soil – medium dry and sandy and with very high drainage capacity – with abundant quantities of minerals and microelements. A soil that, thanks to its composition, allows the vine to express its potential to the full.
The work of visionary winemakers did the rest: thanks to them, the area around the volcano has become the ideal destination for wine lovers and gourmets.
