Over the years, wines coming from the sunny island of Sicily in Italy have undergone a massive transformation. What was once touted as a region of dull and uninteresting varietals has now blossomed into an array of amazing flavours and types unique to Sicily. Holidays to this wonderful Italian island often include a visit to the many vineyards offering all kinds of libations - from complex reds, fruity whites and some bold dessert wines. Choose what works best for your group and itinerary and sample as few or as many as you wish.
A historical craft
Some Sicilians claim that wine making can be traced back more than 1,000 years to this region, becoming popular by the 1700s. Although the grape types have changed over the centuries, many classics remain the same and can be found at all the popular wineries. If you're into reds you should try Perricone, Frappato and the more modem Merlot or Shiraz. White varieties include Trebbiano, Moscato Bianco and Cataratto. Most towns with wineries nearby will host special tastings or even classes so you can get a feel for the overall style of Sicilian wines.
Best vineyards to explore
While there are as many wineries and vineyards on the island as there are pizza and pasta cafes, choosing a select few is advisable when in Sicily. Holidays involving wine tasting offer a fantastic introduction to this region's wines. Around the rich soil of Mount Etna, a still active volcano, is a great place to start. If you're searching for some authentic charm, the medieval town of Castlebuono has the Santa Anastasia Winery, located inside a restored abbey. History is highlighted in Marsala where the Donnafugata Winery has been in business for more than 150 years. Palmero might be one of the best-known regions for local wines and boasts places like the Regaleai Estate, with many award-winning varietals, or outside the city in Sambuca di Sicilia for the best views.
An unforgettable finish
One thing you really shouldn't miss (that is often overlooked) is the superb array of dessert wines in Sicily. Holidays are the ideal time to let your hair down and eat, drink and be merry so make sure you sample these for the complete overview. With the Italian island's weather being so sunny, it can bring out a higher sugar content in the grapes, thus making a very rich and super sweet type of wine usually imbibed after a meal. A popular pick comes from the small island off the coast called Pantelleria, which features Zibbibo grapes greatly concentrated into their wine. Even rarer are the types of brandy and other fine liqueurs that take the fermenting process even further, offering a strong, sweet spirit that can complement or follow a dessert wine as well, made from the same fruits or grapes.
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