Wine tours of northeastern Sicily
2 minutes
Northeastern Sicily is a land of contrasts: sea, mountains, volcanoes and hills intertwine in a varied landscape that yields wines unique in complexity, history and character. In this 4-day itinerary we will travel through the region's most fascinating DOC areas: from the Aeolian Islands to Milazzo, from Messina to Etna.
Protagonists are indigenous grape varieties such as Malvasia di Lipari, Nocera, Nerello Mascalese, and Carricante, which give rise to structured reds, mineral whites, sparkling wines and passiti wines of rare elegance.
Amid volcanic vistas, historic villages and coastal paths, this journey is an invitation to get to know Sicily through its oenological heritage. Each stop is accompanied by winery tastings, vineyard trails and flavors of local cuisine.
Aeolian Islands: Malvasia and volcanic landscapes
The itinerary starts in the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the northeastern coast of Sicily. DOC Malvasia delle Lipari is the star: a sweet, aromatic white wine made from Malvasia di Lipari and black Corinth. Also famous is the raisin and fortified version, perfect with dried fruit or almond cakes.
Visit one of the island wineries between Lipari and Salina, walk among terraced vineyards and enjoy the sunset over the sea. Return by ferry to Milazzo.
Mamertino DOC: history and flavors on the Nebrodi.
Arriving in Milazzo, one enters the Mamertino DOC area, already known in Roman times. Here both whites (Grillo, Inzolia, Catarratto) and reds (Nero d'Avola, Nocera) are produced, ideal with meat dishes and cheeses.
A visit to the winery allows visitors to discover reserve variants and the history of local grape varieties. A detour to the mountain landscapes of the Nebrodi Mountains or the historic center of Milazzo is recommended.
Faro DOC: signature red on the Strait
Moving north toward Messina, one enters the small but historic DOC Faro area. Native grape varieties such as Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Nocera yield a complex and structured red wine with delicate aromas and harmonious flavor.
Don't miss a tasting near Cape Peloro, where the Strait meets the vineyards. Ideal to pair with dishes of Messina cuisine: game, eggplant, aged cheeses.
Etna DOC: the wine of the volcano
Last stop: Etna, where vines grow on volcanic soils between 500 and 1100 m above sea level. Etna DOC is among the most highly regarded in Italy. Etna Bianco (Carricante and Catarratto), Etna Rosso (Nerello Mascalese and Cappuccio), Rosato and Spumante tell of the minerality of this unique terroir.
Visiting a winery on the north or east side of the volcano is an experience not to be missed, amid moonscapes and lush forests. A final toast gazing at the crater brings the trip to a close.
