Cantine Nicosia Etna Bianco 

This blend of Carricante and Catarratto demonstrates the freshness of high elevation grapegrowing as well as the complex profile of wines grown on volcanic soils. Nicosia was founded in 1898, now in their fifth generation, and was one of the original wineries to settle on Etna. This delightful bianco has an intense bouquet of wildflowers, grapefruit and tart green apples. The volcanic 'minerailty' is everpresent, and leads to a long and refreshing finish.

Famiglia Statella Etna Rosata

We picked this wine for its bold uniqueness in the world full of pale and simple rosés. It's a testament to the winemakers of Sicily who are actively bringing the signature styles of volcanic wine to the table.

The wine is nearly copper in color, and aromas of yellow spices like curry and tamarind are detected. It exudes volcanic soils with an ashy, drying sensation mingling with flavors of green fruits, melon, and peach skin. Obscure tasting notes aside, the wine is lovely and begs for cajun spice sea scallops and butted roasted asparagus.

Poggio di Bortolone Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico

Founded in 1888 by the Cosenzo family, it is now in the hands of the young Pierluigi Cosenza. Cerasuolo di Vittoria is an appelation in the south of Siciliy, where Frappato grapes dominate and are often blended with Nero'Avola, which is the case in this bottling.

The wines of this estate are elegant and full of personality. Their 30 acres of vineyards include a broad mix of sandy, calcareous soils of red, brown and yellow at 250m elevation.

Antica Tindari Imperium Mamertino Rosso

With a history going back thousands of years, it's claimed at Julius Ceasars favorite wine was Mamertino Rosso. High elevations vineyards are farmed organically and include a mix of both red and white grapes. This Imperium blend of indigenous red grapes Nero D'Avola, Nocera, and Nerello Mascalese is a stunning example of a bold red that combines the rustic charm of purple wildflowers, dark fruits, a core of distinct acidity, and a long pleasing finish.

Speaking of shepherds, pair this with herb crusted lamb chops with chimichurri sauce.

Fedegraziani Etna Rosso

A former champion sommelier turned winery owner, Federico Graziani was attracted the burgundian style and finesse of the wines of Mount Etna. On the northern side of the active volcano near the town of Passopiscaro, Fede's style is pure and minimal from old plantings of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio.

We love this Etna Rosso for its balance of elegance, depth, and sheer complexity of flavors. One must simply try the influence of the volcanic soils to understand them.