The Ultimate Starter Guide to Sicilian Wine

A Beginner’s Guide To Sicilian Wine

Well, this region has a rich history of making outstanding wines — some of which may just become your next favorite glass of vino.

How Long Has Sicily Been Producing Wine?

Sicily boasts a long and rich history of winemaking. The region has produced wine for centuries, with grape cultivation for wine dating back to the 8th century B.C. 

With a dry, warm climate, consistent sunshine, and moderate rainfall, the island is well-suited to provide an excellent location for growing grapes. Coastal breezes also help reduce the chance of rotting vines, making organic, low-intervention farming much more feasible.  

Until the mid-1900s, however, winemakers exported their products to perfect the wine in other places, such as northern Italy and France. It’s only been relatively recently that Sicily has had the chance to stand on its own in the wine world. 

Now, as travel trends shift towards the undiscovered, Sicily has become an even bigger topic in the wine conversation. For instance, Sicilia DOC has over 400 wine producers in their wine consortium, and you may have already noticed some Sicilian wines in your local wine shop.

Whether you’re Sicily-bound or want to enjoy some new and refreshing flavors, this guide to Sicilian wine will tell you everything you need to know.

What Makes Sicilian Wine Unique 

“The different terrain and elevation create unique soil components, creating indigenous grapes that can only be grown on the island,” explained Antonio Rallo, President of Sicilia DOC. “Sicily’s climate makes it perfect for sustainable farming with roughly 300 days of sunshine per year, winds that protect against frost and mildews, and one of the longest harvests on the planet lasting more than 90 days.”

Where Is Wine Country In Sicily?

The first thing to note from this guide to Sicilian wine is that, as the largest island in Italy, it boasts a vast and varied wine landscape. Sicily has 24 wine regions, including 23 Denominazioni di Origine Controllata (DOC) and 1 Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG). 

In the west, you’ll find Marsala DOC, where the famed fortified wine is produced. Etna DOC is on the east coast, where peppery Etna Rosso (or red wines) come from. Rich reds from Nero d’Avola grapes hail from one of the sunniest, warmest parts of Sicily, Noto DOC. Grapes used in Sicilian wines are grown throughout the island, though. 

Why Try Sicilian Wines

Although Sicily has produced wine for centuries, the region traditionally exported much of its product throughout Europe and beyond to fortify other wines. In the mid-1900s, they began exporting less and bottling more locally as Sicilian wine.

While you may not have heard of some of the best wines from Sicily, you’ll find they’re worth your attention. During a wine trip through Sicily, I discovered many new types of wine that immediately made their way onto my list of favorites — even a few reds, which I don’t typically drink. 

Sicilian wine brands haven’t yet received the same level of recognition as those from Tuscany. From a consumer’s perspective, though, that means you’ll pay considerably less for equally excellent wine.

What Type Of Wine Is Sicily Known For? 

When shopping for the best Sicilian wine, this guide will help you better understand the tasting notes to expect and the meals to pair it with.

Below you’ll find descriptions of a handful of the most grape varieties that are indigenous to Sicily and what they bring to a nice glass of vino.

Main Sicilian White Wine Grapes

Grillo

Famous for making Marsala wines, you can also find Grillo grapes in both varietal and blended white wines. Light and fresh, expect fruity flavors like ripe citrus and a hint of spice.
Pair it with: seafood pasta, roasted fowl, and baked casseroles

Catarratto

Expect bold, fruity, and floral aromas from this yellow-green grape, which is beautifully balanced with a gentle touch of fine herbs and spices. Catarratto grapes generally produce wines with a full body and a generous amount of acidity.
Pair it with: seafood, marinated antipasti, and vegetarian courses

Inzolia

Also known as Ansonica, this grape is primarily grown in Western Sicily. An aroma of nuts and herbs lends wines made from Inzolia grapes a hint of understated elegance, complemented by a soft, mineral finish. You may also detect subtle aromas of flowers and fruits.
Pair it with: mushroom pasta, baked or grilled fish, white meats 

Major Sicilian Red Wine Grapes

Nero d’Avola

A rich ruby hue, Nero d’Avola thrives in clay and deep soils, which contribute to its more intense aromas and flavors, as well as a full body, healthy acidity, and tannins. Get ready for the enticing aromas of red fruits, like strawberry and sour cherry, sweet spices, licorice, and even cocoa. 
Pair it with: charcuterie and antipasti, grilled swordfish, grilled or roasted meats, and mushroom risotto.

Frappato

This grape produces light-bodied wines, making it easy to drink and perfect for a lazy afternoon. It is often blended, but you may also find it bottled separately. Frappato has intense aromas of violet, spices, and red cherry.
Pair it with: pasta, pizza, roasted meat, potatoes, soft cheeses 

Perricone

Sometimes called Pignatello, this grape gets used to make full-bodied wines with deep hues and typically a higher alcohol content. You’ll discover aromas of spicy red fruits, herbs, and earthiness, along with flavors of bramble fruit.
Pair it with: charcuterie, salty antipasti, pasta with ragu, eggplant parmigiana, roasted vegetables, cheese.