The Etna Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC), established in 1968, is one of the oldest in Italy and today stands as one of the most emblematic examples of precise viticulture and zoning. Mount Etna is a true “oenological continent,” defined by extraordinary pedoclimatic diversity—altitude, sun exposure, soil type, and geological history all contribute to a unique viticultural mosaic.
The main grape varieties are Nerello Mascalese (the key component in Etna Rosso and Rosato), often blended in small amounts with Nerello Cappuccio, and Carricante for Etna Bianco. These native varieties yield elegant, layered wines, often capable of remarkable aging.
A major leap in territorial identity came with the introduction of the “Contrada” concept into the Etna DOC regulations, starting from the 2011 vintage. Official zoning now recognizes more than 130 Contrade, mostly located on the northern, northeastern, and southeastern slopes of the volcano—around key towns such as Randazzo, Castiglione di Sicilia, Passopisciaro, Linguaglossa, and Milo.
These Contrade are historical micro-zones—comparable to the climats of Burgundy—defined by specific features:
• Altitude (from 400 up to over 1,000 meters a.s.l.)
• Solar exposure
• Volcanic soil composition (sandy, pumice-rich, basaltic, etc.)
• Age of the lava flow from which the soil derives
• Local microclimate
Although the Contrade are not (yet) ranked like Premier or Grand Cru, they are gaining increasing prestige and international recognition.
Heroic and Dynamic Viticulture
Mountain viticulture on steep volcanic terraces, manual labor, low yields, and obsessive attention to the vineyard make Etna a symbol of precision and authenticity. Over the past 15 years, Etna has undergone a renaissance, attracting both historic local producers and renowned names from across Italy and abroad.
Etna Wines: Freshness, Elegance, and Volcanic Depth
Etna Bianco, based on Carricante, offers freshness, aromatic finesse, and striking minerality. These vertical wines age beautifully, developing complexity over time.
Etna Rosso, made from Nerello Mascalese with Nerello Cappuccio, is the true signature of the region. With its light color and refined tannic structure, it evokes comparisons with Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, showing notes of red fruit, herbs, volcanic ash, and spices.
Etna Rosato, produced from short macerations of Nerello Mascalese, combines freshness and structure, ideal for modern food pairings.
Lastly, Etna Metodo Classico sparkling wines, made with Carricante or white vinified Nerello Mascalese, are gaining recognition for their finesse, low dosage, and mineral elegance.
These are wines with a strong sense of place—a perfect match for the selection at Enoteca Hortis, where tradition and innovation meet in every bottle.
