Historically, Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, was associated primarily with the production of simple, inexpensive red wines, commonly purchased in bulk as daily drinking wine. However, the late 20th century signaled a shift in the narrative and birthed the possibility of realizing the full potential of Sicilian wine. Tasca d’Almerita and Donnafugata, amplified this change and brought a wave of ambition that breathed new life into the island's wine industry.

From around the turn of the millennium, Mount Etna, a sometimes terrifyingly active volcano, began its ascent to fame, this time as a vibrant wine region. Fast forward to the present, the Sicilian wines have carved a niche for themselves in the Italian wine industry and are famous for their unique character derived from an array of native grape varieties the island offers.

Donnafugata, a prominent winehouse leveraging vineyards scattered all across Sicily, presents a standout wine from near Vittoria. Named Cerasuolo, meaning ‘cherrylike,’ is a local concoction of Nero d’Avola and Frappato. Its mesmerizing red-berry flavor enhanced with nuances of green olives and Mediterranean herbs, is sure to leave your palate asking for more.

In the heartland of Sicily, owners Fabio Sireci and Melissa Muller oversee an organic agricultural heaven. Apart from grapes, they also cultivate lentils, chickpeas, olives, and a plethora of herbs. Their fresh and vibrant Nero d’Avola-filled with the taste of ripe strawberries and blackberries, leaves an earthy aftertaste.

Off the coast near Marsala lies the compact island of Mozia. It’s home to Tenuta Whitaker, a Tasca family estate, known for its distinctive Grillo variety wine. This unique white wine, with the taste of a fully-loaded fruit basket featuring tangerines, pineapples, limes, beautifully balanced with a crisp edge of acidity.

Now, savor Valle Dell’Acate's Frappato, a revitalized light-bodied Sicilian red variety. The fine beverage resurrects memories of your favorite raspberry candies. The winery is a pioneer in Sicily’s southeastern Ragusa province.

Tenuta di Fessina, founded in 2007, is among the emerging new-wave Etna producers. Their medium-bodied 90% Carricante white wine, filled with fresh lemon-pear flavors, serves as a perfect pair with shellfish.

Last but not least, COS, a revolutionary Sicilian vineyard, was among the first batch to adopt biodynamic farming practices and clay amphorae wine aging. Their light-bodied red wine offers a delightful mix of fresh summer strawberries and orange-peel notes. Served chilled, a perfect wine to transition from summer heat to cool fall.