AT THE FOOT OF MOUNT ETNA

Altitude, fertile volcanic ash, and abundant sunlight create a unique environment for vineyards

- Michèle Shah

Nestled on the slopes of one of the world's most active volcanoes, Mount Etna, is a unique viticultural treasure. Rising over 3,300 metres (10,827 feet) into the sky, Etna's imposing height not only defines the landscape but profoundly influences the wines produced here. This is the realm of heroic viticulture, where grapevines cling to ancient terraces, battling the elements to produce some of Italy's most distinctive wines.

Etna's presence is both imposing and captivating, casting a mystical shadow over the surrounding landscape. For centuries this majestic giant has shaped not only the terrain but also the lives and livelihoods of those who dwell in its shadow. Etna's winemaking history dates back 3,000 years. The Greeks were among the first to recognize the potential of this volcanic soil for grape cultivation. The combination of fertile volcanic ash, altitude, and abundant sunlight creates a unique environment for vineyards.

At altitudes ranging from 400 to 1,000 metres, Etna's vineyards benefit from cooler temperatures and significant diurnal temperature variations. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving acidity while developing complex flavours. The high-altitude terroir imparts a remarkable freshness and elegance to the wines, reminiscent of the finesse found in Burgundy and Barolo.

Etna's geological history is a story of continuous change and renewal. The volcano's eruptions, both explosive and effusive, have layered the landscape with ash, pumice, and lava. Its landscape is a mosaic of contrasts, a testament to the volcano's relentless activity over millennia. The black and grey hues of ancient and recent lava flows weave through the green vineyards, creating a striking visual tapestry.