Wines from Sicily

True to the house style, Nerojbleo offers a generous load of ripe fruit with maraschino cherry and blackberry jam at the centre. Its texture is dense, soft and carried by a slight sweetness. A juice and power package with a nice drinking flow and a typical Gulfi interpretation of the grape variety. SUPERIORE.DE

Etna Rosso comes from the Torreguarino and Pietramarina vineyards on Etna. Bright, sparkling ruby red colour with a transparent core. Fine spicy notes, pepper and small red berries on the nose, notes of ripe raspberries on the palate. Dense, with lots of fruit and compact tannins. Elegant, yet fresh and racy and very authentic. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light tannins are crisp and fine in this bright red that defines a pure note of crushed raspberry with a hint of pomegranate puree, supported by accents of blood orange peel, dried lavender and tarry smoke that ends in a creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"The sunny, floral nose shows aromas of roses, hibiscus, cherries and strawberries, along with balancing undertones of salt and stone. On the palate, a hint of orange peel underlines the cherry and strawberry flavours, while the tannins leave a powerful, invigorating impression." Wine Enthusiast

"The Etna Rosso 2022 presents itself with an airy bouquet of rosy flowers, lavender and exotic spices. It opens with a pretty inner sweetness and soft textures as wild strawberries and blueberries swirl. It tapers off with a hint of crisp minerality and a violet finish, revealing a tart blackberry note towards the end." Vinous

"Vivid and lively, this has aromas of dark cherries, watermelon and a hint of lemons following through to a medium body with integrated tannins and crunchy fruit at the end. Energetic and focused." James Suckling

The fruity and characterful Angheli made from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon immediately impresses with its opulent colour. The complex, fruity bouquet has accentuated notes of sour cherries, blackberries and small forest fruits, with cocoa, liquorice and cardamom in the background. On the palate, the velvety fullness accompanied by a pleasant freshness and the persistent finish are delightful. SUPERIORE.DE

The enterprising British merchant Benjamin, known as "Bip", founded a company after arriving in Sicily in 1806, which was instrumental in the rise of Marsala in the world. The fermentation of this fine Marsala is interrupted by the enrichment with brandy matured for at least 5 years in oak barrels. Intense golden yellow with amber reflections. Ethereal bouquet with notes of melon and honey. In the multi-layered taste, we find notes of dried apricots and stewed pears in addition to an appealing sweetness. SUPERIORE.DE

"There's plenty of dried-fig and papaya character in this luscious but balanced Marsala. Long, creamy finish with plenty of grapefruity freshness that leaves the palate cleaner than many fortified wines do." James Suckling

Fresh, bright ruby colour. The Syrah impresses with its intense and ripe bouquet with hints of figs, redcurrants, preserved cherries, blueberries, spices and vanilla. Velvety, elegant tannins accompany the opulent and lively structure through to the lingering final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Maroccoli, is dark and floral. In the glass, it reveals a smoky mix of grilled herbs, dried violets and crushed blackberries. It is wonderfully fresh and light, with bright wild berries and a juicy acidity that retains a fantastic energy. It finishes with a pleasantly bitter feel that tapers off with medium length and a spicy hint." Vinous

"This is rich, mellow and nicely filled with fruit, offering dark cherries, plums, mild spices and hints of cedar and nutmeg on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with velvety, rather supple tannins and impressive volume and length. A smooth and fruity aftertaste." James Suckling

Deep ruby red with garnet-coloured reflections. Dense and intense aroma of red fruits with notes of leather, earth, spices and minerals, with a hint of vanilla and sandalwood. Full-bodied on the palate, well-defined tannins supported by a dense structure, leading to a long-lasting and very smooth final. A Bordeaux blend in a class of its own! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Burdese is a straightforward expression of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Cabernet Franc (30%) that doesn't impose. The wine is soft on the palate with medium-bodied layers of ripe cherry, plum, soft earth and leather. The tannins are immediate and soft." Wine Advocate

"This Bordeaux blend shows berries, fresh herbs such as parsley and a hint of vanilla. It has a medium to full body with medium round tannins and a juicy finish. Very enjoyable now, but it will be much better in two or three years." James Suckling

"Dusty dried flowers, crushed rock, graphite and red plums form a dark, seductive bouquet when the 2018 Burdese reveals itself in the glass. The palate is lapped by soft textures contrasted by a core of tart wild berries. Mineral tones slowly saturate. A web of fine tannins lends it youthful composure, nicely balanced by a hint of sour citrus, while the 2018 tapers off for a long time and yet displays wonderful balance." Vinous

"The nose is dark and rich, yet also layered and subtle, with both heavy aromas of petrol and tar and juicier notes of blackberries, figs and dark chocolate. The figs and chocolate carry the palate, though wild herbs and bitter orange give buoyancy. Tannins are unyielding, while acid is more discreet but still perceptible." Wine Enthusiast

A modern, single-varietal Chardonnay that does not deny its terroir with an almost Burgundian style. Elegant, complex and full of character, the aromatically fragrant Jalé has a balanced, long flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, clear golden yellow colour. On the nose, clearly roasted hazelnuts, apricot jam, a little nut butter, followed by pineapple yoghurt and a little banana. The palate opens juicy with dancing acidity, some citrus. Salty, medium-long final. Good with grilled fish!" Falstaff

"The 2022 Jalè is a single varietal Chardonnay with a blend of vanilla custard, sweet spices and yellow apples. It feels silky, almost creamy, with a balance of mineral fruit and a hint of sour citrus. The 2022 is long and powerful, but also remarkably fresh. Lime zest and tart notes of green apples round off the finish." Vinous

The grapes for this single-varietal Grillo in a class of its own come from the region around Marsala. Bright yellow. Strong citrus notes in the complex bouquet. The finish surprises with a mineral note and lively freshness. Favourite wine! SUPERIORE.DE

Delicate, elegant Nerello Mascalese with fine aromas of red fruits and raspberries, enveloped in a pleasant citrus freshness. As the wine progresses, it develops a smoky note associated with the strong component of lava rock that characterises the volcanic soil of Etna. Lively, harmonious and full of flavour on the palate, it is a resolutely versatile wine that goes perfectly with a wide range of fish dishes, shellfish and white meats. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich and layered Etna red with sliced dried strawberries, plums, bark, dark mushrooms and some volcanic spice. It’s medium- to full-bodied with round, chewy tannins and a savory finish. From organically grown grapes. Give this three or four years to soften." James Suckling

Intense and enveloping aromas of blackberry, dark fruit and cocoa. Memorable, full-bodied fruit and firm tannins on the palate, which give this Merlot its unique elegance. Pleasantly round, long and with traces of mint on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose starts sweet and wild with aromas of blueberries, raspberries and a hint of vanilla, before spicy notes of leather, herbs and pepper make themselves known. On the palate, flavours of cherry, vanilla and milk chocolate support the berry element before a lingering, herbaceous and stony finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Sito dell'Ulmo is remarkably pretty, wafting up with a blend of wild blueberries, sage, dusty dried violets and hints of tobacco. It's round and supple, possessing cooling acidity and crisp wild berry fruits that cascade across the palate as rosy inner florals form toward the close. The 2019 tapers off gently tannic yet wildly fresh, finishing with notes of lavender and crushed blackberry. Stunning." Vinous

The SP68 cuvée of Frappato and Nero d'Avola is wonderfully fresh, dynamic, individual and modern. Generous flavours, solidly structured and equipped with mild tannins and fine spice. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2023 Rosso SP68 is pretty and perfumed, with a blend of crushed roses and violets accentuating blackberries, white smoke and wet stones. It washes across the palate with a liquid floral concentration and tart wild berry fruits, all guided by a core of brisk acidity. The 2023 leaves the mouth salivating as a tart cranberry crunchiness resonates and hints of blood orange slowly fade." Vinous

The name of this fresh and aromatic Malvasia is dedicated to the former owner Paola Lantieri, who cultivated the 4.5 hectare vineyard with great dedication. The vines grow on mineral soils of ash, fine brown sand, pumice and silicate.

A fresh bouquet of spicy yellow flowers, lime zest, nectarines and crushed stones. On the palate, we find an attractive bouquet of ripe orchard fruits, tropical citrus fruits and a cooling minerality. The long and very delicious final is accompanied by kiwi and sage - very successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"White stone fruit, citrus fruit, fresh sage and chalky earth on offer. Fresh and crisp on the palate with juicy acidity and a chalky mineral backbone. Medium-bodied with a refreshing finish." James Suckling

"Tasca's Tenuta Capofaro is situated on the Aeolian Islands off the northeast tip of Sicily. Here, on the island of Vulcano, Malvasia is grown on its loose, sandy volcanic soils. Very soft with good saline, its peachy aroma with green fruit hints is reflected in the mouth, with a pithy character and a long, fresh and juicy finish." Decanter

Elegant, exotic-looking Etna Bianco with wonderfully broad flavours of tropical fruit, blossom and peach. Beautifully juicy, balanced and long in flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"A blend from 5 contrade. Extremely aromatic, expansive, sexy bouquet with white peach and spices. This successful cuvée captivates with its multi-layered hints of mountain and flower meadows, paired with light exotic fruits. Melting on the palate with white fruits, mineral notes and a salty finish." Weinwisser

"The 2022 Etna Bianco rises from the glass with a savoury blend of dried flowers, stone dust and freshly cut nectarine. It shows ripe stone fruit and a feeling of liquid stone accompanied by fresh acidity. The 2022 finishes crisp and long, with a tart concentration of citrus that tickles the cheeks and keeps the taster reaching for the glass." Vinous

"It has notes of lemon, camomile and sweet basil. It is bright and fruity, with a medium body and a fresh, creamy finish." James Suckling

"A blend of Carricante from various Contradas in Castiglione di Sicilia on the north side of Mount Etna. This undried Bianco is bright and cheerful, full of white peach, white flowers, apricot skin, cream, pink grapefruit and hay. Its long, floral finish is delightful, juicy and stony." Decanter

Donnafugata's impressive declaration of love to Etna, currently the hottest wine hotspot, began with the Sul Vulcano line. Light ruby red in colour, with a bouquet of wild strawberry and delicate hints of black cherry, cinnamon and nutmeg. The corresponding, fresh flavour and subtle elegance lead to a harmonious and energetic finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Open-hearted bouquet with delicate oxidation, lilac, juniper and tobacco. Earthy and mineral on the palate with fine tannins and spicy notes." Weinwisser

"Medium, bright garnet red with a brightening rim. Fine aromas of strawberries and raspberries and a hint of cherry syrup on the nose. Crisp, fresh and juicy on the palate with a fruity finish and fine-grained tannins." Falstaff

"It impresses with its ripe core of black cherry and plum and offers pretty accents of violets, aniseed and dried herbs. This red wine is light-footed, with taut tannins that round off the mineral finish." Wine Spectator

"A soft and open red with plum and spice character as well as floral undertones. Some fresh herbs too. Medium body. Lightly chewy." James Suckling

"Hints of sweet spice and dusty rose give way to crushed cherries and cloves as the 2021 Etna Rosso Sul Vulcano blossoms in the glass. On the palate, it displays a texture of pure silk with ripe red fruits accompanied by lively acidity, while floral notes unfold on the inside. Fine tannins and a primary concentration saturate towards the end, while the 2021 finishes long. Traces of liquorice fade towards the end. This is a fantastic offering, especially at this price point." Vinous

A modern, single-varietal Chardonnay that does not deny its terroir with an almost Burgundian style. Elegant, complex and full of character, the aromatically fragrant Jalé has a balanced, long flavour and a subtle citrus note that lends it freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Only the best grapes." adorns the label. Expressive, intense white wine made from the indigenous Grillo grape, which began its quiet and steep career as the exclusive house wine of the Moretti family and is still only available in small quantities today. Strong, bright straw yellow colour. An expansive bouquet of exotic fruits, flowers and flint, fruity and soft with a fresh, mineral note in the long and energetic final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium shiny straw yellow with silver-coloured reflections. Intense aroma of ripe peach, mango and candied citrus fruit on the nose, spicy with a hint of vanilla pod. Juicy and tense on the palate, very balanced and with a slightly noticeable use of wood, final with a citrus flavour." Falstaff

"Fresh aromas of honeysuckle, lemon rind, sea salt and green melon. Medium-bodied, crisp and focused, with notes of apples, honey and minerals. Focused and creamy texture." James Suckling

Occhipintis Bianco has been one of Sicily's craziest and at the same time most independent white wines for years. Made from equal parts Moscato and Albanello, it exudes the scent of peaches and flowers, with a subtle smoky note on the nose. Delicately bitter on the palate, yet bone-dry and with wonderfully fruity hints of lychee, lime and apricot. With half an hour of aeration and at a moderate 12°C drinking temperature, you will be completely mesmerised by the sophistication and drinkability of this exceptional wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2023 Bianco SP68 is distinctly savory, as wild herbs and wet concrete give way to crushed nectarines. This is soothingly round and supple with a spicy tinge of ginger up front, leading to tart orchard fruits and a cascade of salty minerals. The 2023 finishes vividly fresh yet still potent, leaving hints of green melon and lime zest that linger on and on. Allow the Bianco SP68 some time to open in the bottle to express its aromatics properly." Vinous

Maldafrica denotes an "inner longing for a distant land" and is not love at first sight, but it is one of the most interesting wines of Sicily. It is very subtle and nuanced at first and it opens up gradually on its own timetable, but then: spontaneously fermented in amphorae, Maldafrica overwhelms the senses with dark fruits, spices, chopped herbs, salty notes, sulphur, leather and damp tobacco. Its mouthfeel is over a minute long and its acidity provides the perfect amount of astringency to refresh the senses for all its opulence. A quiet monument that sets standards throughout the wine region and leaves a lasting impression for all its longing. SUPERIORE.DE

Light yellow with green reflections. Strong aroma with grapefruit, peach and some lime. Good balance of pineapple, apple and tropical fruits on the palate. A very complex yet fresh white from the house of Rallo, which rightly ranks among the best whites in Sicily every year. Good storage and ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

Sparkling ruby red colour, intense and appealing mineral aroma of plums, orange zest, ripe raspberries and a hint of liquorice in the background. Elegant tannins and a delicious fruity flavour on the juicy palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2022 Etna Rosso smells of pink flowers and a hint of juniper berries. It is vividly fruit-driven, with a wave of ripe wild berries and sweet spices flowing over a stream of vibrant acidity. It leaves a hint of primary concentration and slightly grippy tannins that linger as the purple flowers inside slowly fade. Although more extroverted than expected, the 2022 is an absolute pleasure and has fantastic balance." Vinous

Delicate light pink. Fine berry scent with hints of gravel and tuff. Delicate floral aroma, light plum and pink grapefruit. In the fresh finish some flint and mineral notes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Radiant salmon pink. Slightly reductive on the nose at first, then nuances of sweet cherry and white peach. On the palate full-bodied, with a slight tannic rip, fresh and juicy, fun." Falstaff

"Attractive rosé with pink nectarines, dried flowers and crushed stones on the nose. Medium-bodied, dry and crisp with chalky texture and tangy zestiness at the end. Fresh and crunchy." James Suckling

The eruption of 1614 is legendary in the history of Etna, as it lasted ten years, making it the longest recorded eruption of the active volcano to date. A very impressive and fitting name for Planeta's Etna series of equally impressive wines.

Carricante from Planeta's Etna vineyard is an exceptional wine full of freshness, energy and minerality. This noble grape variety thrives in exclusive conditions, on volcanic soils and at altitudes of 870 metres. A wonderfully complex pleasure that is only ever released for sale two years after the harvest. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light golden yellow colour. Flint, graphite, fresh green apple, sage, lavender on the nose, emphasised mineral components in the background. Full-bodied on the palate, white honey, orange, white flowers, mineral and salty on the finish." Falstaff

"The 2021 Carricante Eruzione 1614 rises from the glass with a burst of crushed stones, sage and dried apricots. It exudes a savoury tension as crunchy fruit piles up in cascades, enhanced by a hint of sour citrus. The finish is long and colourful, yet incredibly fresh, leaving a salty sensation that leaves the mouth wanting more." Vinous

"A well-rounded, balanced and seductive Carricante. Fresh lemons, mild spices and some dried apples on the nose. Medium-bodied on the palate with a fresh lemon character. Juicy and refreshing with a delicious, flavourful finish." James Suckling