Sicilia

The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) "Sicilia" identifies a very large number of wines. There are eight types without indication of grape variety: White, White vendemmia tardiva, Red, Red reserve, Red vendemmia tardiva, Rosé, White sparkling wine and Rose sparkling wine. There are also numerous wines with specifications of one or two reference grape varieties. The exhaustive list can be found in the product specification.

Grapes

For the production of the different types of wines there are different reference grape varieties. In the case of white wines, 50% Insolia, Catarratto, Grillo and Grecanico (alone or in combination) are required. The red wines, on the other hand, are made from grapes grown in vineyards at least 50% of which are Nero d'Avola, Frappato, Nerello mascalese and Perricone. On the other hand, in the White Sparkling Wine at least 50% of the grapes used are from Catarratto, Inzolia, Chardonnay, Grecanico, Grillo, Carricante, Pinot Noir, Moscato Bianco and Zibibbo. While for the Rose sparkling wine 50% must be from Nerello mascalese, Nero d'Avola, Pinot Noir and Frappato. Finally, for variants with an indication of the vine, it is required that this represents at least 85% of the ampelographic base. In all types, up to the missing quotas, are allowed other similar berry varieties, suitable for cultivation in Sicilia.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

In all the wines of the Sicilia denomination there are organoleptic characteristics of great balance, which ensure the balance of taste. The different grape varieties used, which are prevalent from time to time, bring out pleasant, harmonious and characteristic aromas, flanked by floral, fruity or vegetable notes. A precise description of the peculiarities of each wine can be found in the specification.

Grape production area

The production area is very large and coincides with the entire region of Sicilia. It therefore has considerable morphological and climatic differences.

Specificity and historical notes

The Sicilian winemaking tradition is one of the oldest in Italy. Begun by the Phoenicians, who already traded in wine and oil, it experienced a period of great splendor during the Greek colonization.