The most famous winemaking families in Sicily

Sicily – an Italian island bathed in Mediterranean sun, beautiful and hot, is famous as the cradle of the mafia and the homeland of Italy’s finest wines. Traditions and customs hold immense importance on this volcanic island. The history of viticulture and wine production here dates back to ancient Greece. Regardless of whether Sicily was ruled by the Greeks, Romans, or French at any given historical moment, winemaking traditions were passed down from parents to children, and no historical upheaval ever disrupted these local customs. This is how some of the oldest wineries in Europe came to be. The most renowned winemaking families in Sicily still produce some of the most highly regarded wines to this day.

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The most renowned winemaking families in Sicily – from tradition to modernity

For many years, Sicily was the most important wine region in Italy, with many families engaged in wine production. After a period in the 1980s and 1990s when production quality declined, Italian wines—especially those from Sicily—have regained their reputation and are now recognized for their high quality and unique taste and aroma.

It’s worth taking a closer look at the current market and discovering the most renowned winemaking families in Sicily to understand the unique character of the island’s wine industry and appreciate its rich tradition and expertise in wine production. While exploring wines, it’s also worth learning about the most expensive champagne in the world.

The most famous Sicilian wineries

Sicily is famous for its sunshine, volcano, mafia, and wine. The island’s winemaking families are almost as legendary as its mafia clans, and their achievements in producing this drink are recognized worldwide.

The most famous wineries in Sicily—where tradition meets modernity. Each is run by families with a long-standing winemaking heritage. The most notable among them are:

• Planeta Wines
• Donnafugata.
• Cusumano.
• Tasca d’Almerita
• Benanti

Among these families with winemaking traditions, let’s take a closer look at three of the most renowned wine producers, their history, and achievements. It is largely thanks to them that Sicilian wines have regained their former prestige and are once again valued and sought after by connoisseurs. This is also a good opportunity to consider what to serve alcoholic beverages in.

Planeta Winery

When considering the most renowned winemaking families in Sicily, the Planeta family is impossible to overlook. Planeta Winery is an outstanding Sicilian producer that has earned the admiration of wine connoisseurs worldwide. It’s a captivating story of a family venture that began with a dream to showcase Sicilian wines on the global stage.

Planeta is a surname with a long history in Sicily. Diego Planeta, one of the founders of the winery, has Spanish roots, but his family has been present in Sicily since the 16th century. This history laid a solid foundation for the family’s passion and commitment to winemaking.

The Planeta winery began its operations in 1990 with a determination to show the world that Sicily has much more to offer than low-quality wines. Their goal was to create wines that would be appreciated by wine lovers around the globe.

The key to the winery’s success lies not only in the dedication of the Planeta family, but also in the outstanding quality and flavor of its wines. While Diego was still working at the Settesoli wine cooperative, he conducted tests on more than 60 different grape varieties to identify those with exceptional taste and potential. As a result, local varieties such as chardonnay, syrah, and merlot emerged, becoming Planeta’s flagship products.

Planeta owns 363 hectares of vineyards in various locations across Sicily, each with its own unique history and character. But Italy is not just about wine and pizza, other Italian inspirations.

Cusumano

Brothers Alberto and Diego Cusumano are figures who have become part of the history of Sicilian winemaking as the creators of the Cusumano brand. Their passion and determination have resulted in the creation of an innovative and renowned winery.

In 2001, the brothers, together with oenologist Mario Ronco, decided to take on the challenge and launch the Cusumano brand. Their goal was to showcase the richness of Sicily as a land of contrasts with the potential to produce exceptional wines. In crafting their wines, they are guided by the idea of harmony between tradition and modernity, as well as respect for Sicilian customs. The Cusano family must be mentioned when selecting the most renowned winemaking families in Sicily.

Cusumano Vineyards

Cusumano has vineyards spread across various regions of Sicily, each location distinguished by its unique climate and soil. The Ficuzza vineyard in Piana degli Albanesi, situated at an altitude of 700-800 meters above sea level, provides excellent conditions for cultivating varieties such as Inzolia, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, which are used to produce wines like Ramusa, Jalé, Cubìa, and Angimbé.

Presti e Pegni in Monreale, located on hills with clay soils, offers excellent conditions for cultivating Nero d’Avola and Syrah varieties, which are used to create the outstanding Benuara wine. San Giacomo in Butera has limestone soils where Nero d’Avola thrives, used in the production of Sàgana wine.

In April 2013, the Cusumano family acquired land on the northern slope of Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, which led to the creation of the Alta Mora project. This winery focuses on producing wine from the Etna region, where grapes grow in volcanic soils at an altitude of 800-1000 meters above sea level.

Cusumano is also an example of a producer that pays attention to the aesthetics of its bottles and labels. Glass stoppers and modern label design are an important part of the company’s marketing, just like the consistent focus on product quality.

Benanti

The history and philosophy of the Benanti winery are a fascinating example of blending tradition with modernity, as well as a commitment to producing exceptional wines in Sicily. Founded by Giuseppe Benanti in 1988, this winery has become a symbol of respect for local grape varieties and the unique terroir of the Etna region.

The story of Benanti began with the family’s passion and tradition for winemaking, but it was Giuseppe Benanti who transformed it into a professional venture that recognized the potential of Etna’s volcanic slopes and native grape varieties. The climate of the Benanti vineyard is remarkable due to its volcanic soil and exceptional sun exposure. The vineyard is spread across various DOC areas on Etna, allowing for the production of wines from indigenous varieties: nerello mascalese, carricante, nerello cappuccio, and minnella. When listing the most renowned winemaking families in Sicily, one cannot forget the creators of “slow” wine.

“Slow” wine

One of the key elements that set Benanti apart is their approach to producing “slow wine.” The production process is unhurried, attentive, and meticulous, with the goal of creating wines of the highest quality. A deep respect for tradition, a commitment to the terroir, and a dedication to excellence are the cornerstones of Benanti’s philosophy.

The Benanti winery is renowned both as an iconic Sicilian producer and as a pioneer setting high standards in winemaking. You can pair the wine with the perfect dishes. Served on the right tableware with a glass of wine, it will guarantee an unforgettable evening.

What makes Sicilian wines unique?

• Volcanic Terroir:
  • Sicily is one of the most volcanic places in the world, and its fertile soil is a key element of Sicilian agriculture.
• Climate Diversity:
  • Sicily features a diverse climate, ranging from subtropical along the coast to cooler, mountainous conditions near Etna.
  • The climate influences the differences in the taste and aroma of wines.
• Local grape varieties:
  • Sicily is home to many unique grape varieties, such as Nero d’Avola, Nerello Mascalese, Carricante, and Grillo.
  • Indigenous grape varieties give the wines their distinctive character and flavor.
• Sun:
  • The abundant sunshine in Sicily promotes grape ripening, resulting in sweeter wines with rich flavors.
  • Sunny exposures also enhance the intensity of wine color.
• Traditions:
  • Sicily has a long history of viticulture, dating back to the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans.
  • These traditions influence winemaking methods that have been preserved for centuries. It’s also worth noting other products with fascinating histories, such as caviar.
• Culture and gastronomy:
  • Sicily is a region with a rich culinary culture, where wine plays an important role alongside food.
  • Sicilian wines pair perfectly with local dishes such as pasta, seafood, and cheeses.
• Strong and dessert wines:
  • Sicilian wines are renowned for their high alcohol content and intense flavors, especially when it comes to red wines.
  • Dessert wine such as Marsala is another Sicilian specialty, famous worldwide.
• Innovation and Modernity:
  • In recent years, winemakers in Sicily have been investing in modern technologies and wine production techniques.
  • This spirit of innovation contributes to the creation of wines of ever-increasing quality

Sicilian wines certainly stand out on the market and offer an interesting option for enthusiasts of this beverage. And here are a few tips for whiskey lovers.