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Sicilia DOC wines
Singular soils
and varieties
Sicilian wines are having a moment, thanks in part to the mysterious aura surrounding those grown on volcanic soils. These unique terroirs lend wines a refined aromatic profile, with fruity, floral, and spicy notes, along with that intriguing perception of minerality. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Near the coast, calcareous marine soils — formed from fossilized shells, corals, and other marine organisms over millennia — also shape the island’s wines. These terroirs give rise to elegant reds and vibrant whites, marked by freshness, tension, and a saline minerality.
The island is divided into four major winegrowing regions, each with its own grapes, landscapes, and styles. A world unto itself, one you might never want to leave. Let's explore!
The Plateau
Southeast Sicily, around the Hyblean plateau, is a sight to behold. This stunning region features natural terraces that gently slope down toward the sea. Centred around Mount Lauro—an ancient, now-extinct volcano—it also includes fertile plains. It’s one of the hottest and driest areas on the island, with very little rainfall, summer temperatures often soaring above 30 °C, and mild winters. Thanks to this sunny climate and the region’s sturdy limestone soils, the wines here are expressive, sun-kissed, and full of character.
The coast
Sicily is also a mosaic of coastal landscapes. Up north, rugged cliffs plunge into the Tyrrhenian Sea, while the stretch between Palermo and Trapani shifts from limestone rocks to sandy beaches. The southern coast is gentler, before turning rocky again near Catania. The climate varies from one area to another, but overall, rainfall is moderate, and summers are plenty warm. This mix of terrain and microclimates makes for a rich and expressive wine scene.
The hinterland
Central Sicily is a hilly region with mineral-rich soils thanks to the presence of clay, marble, and sulfurous rock—all great for nourishing the vines. Rainfall is scarce, summers can get very hot, and winters tend to be mild. Here, sun exposure matters more than altitude when it comes to growing grapes.
The mountains
Northern Sicily is mostly mountainous, especially in the east, where the Peloritani range sets the tone. Heading west, you’ll cross the Nebrodi and then the Madonie mountains, with limestone peaks rising above 700 metres. The climate up north strikes a nice balance: rainfall is moderate—not too much, not too little—which suits the vines well. Summers are generally warm without being scorching, and winters can get chilly, with the occasional frost.
Grape varieties
that make Sicily shine
Nero d’Avola
This native black grape, as its name suggests, is considered the king grape variety in Sicily. Originally from the south near the town of Avola, it is now found in different regions of the island. It can produce wines that are both mouth-filling and suitable for ageing. In its youth, Nero d'Avola reveals a fruity, spicy and delicately floral bouquet that will seduce the most demanding palates.
Frappato
Frappato is a native variety that is scarcely planted but whose reputation has exploded in recent years with the hype for more easy-drinking wines. Its thin-skinned grapes produce wines with a light colour, not very tannic but often very aromatic. Fiery and offering a maximum of fruit, this variety will appeal to lovers of juicy wines with zero wood influence.
Lucido (Catarrato)
Lucido, better known as Catarratto, is full of surprises. It can yield refreshing, mineral-driven wines—or, in the hands of top producers, impress with remarkable depth and density. While it’s sometimes used in the production of Marsala, it’s far better known for its dry expressions.
Grillo
Grillo is the favourite indigenous grape for the production of Marsala, the famous Sicilian fortified wine. Since the 90s, it has been vinified as a dry wine to create cuvées offering undeniable freshness and fruitiness that will please all palates. A must-try as an aperitif, if you haven’t already.
Explore the diversity of Sicila DOC wines
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Cusumano Angimbé Tenuta Ficuzza Sicilia 2024 White wine | 750 ml Italy , Sicily
Fruity and vibrant
(114)$14.95Available Online Available In store -
Available Online Available In store -
Available Online Available In store -
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Cademusa Nero d'Avola Syrah Sicilia Red wine | 750 ml Italy , Sicily
Aromatic and robust
(77)$12.75Available Online Available In store -
Planeta Terebinto Grillo Sicilia Menfi 2024 White wine | 750 ml Italy , Sicily
Fruity and vibrant
(1)$26.55Not available Online Available In store -
Available Online Available In store -
Colomba Bianca Scurata Sicilia Red wine | 750 ml Italy , Sicily
Fruity and medium-bodied
(30)$15.95Available Online Available In store
In partnership with Sicilia DOC wines .
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