Whenever I think of the majestic Mt. Etna in Sicily, I remember how its rich volcanic soil creates some of the most exceptional wines. I’m sharing three incredible red wines from boutique wineries that feel like a cozy hug in a glass to brighten up these chilly, gloomy winter days. These vibrant gems are just the thing to bring warmth and a little spark of energy to the season and broaden the wine perception about Etna Rosso.
Fabio Signorelli has turned Mount Etna into his personal canvas, crafting wines that are a true reflection of this extraordinary volcanic terrain. His passion shines through in every detail, from the meticulous care he devotes to his amphitheater-shaped vineyard in Piedimonte Etneo to the innovative techniques he applies in the cellar. Situated on the northeastern slope of the volcano, his Vineyard home to old vines is bathed in the morning sun. It is challenged by Etna’s unpredictable climate, adding layers of complexity to his wines.
Fabio’s philosophy is rooted in understanding the vineyard’s unique characteristics. On Etna, even a few meters can mean significant changes in soil, exposure, and microclimates. His mission is to let each vintage tell its own story, capturing the dynamic personality of the land.
"Palmento di Levante" 2020 Etna Rosso
One of his standout wines, made from indigenous Nerello Mascalese grapes sourced from two Contradas: Bardazzi, planted in 1896, and Moganazzi, further north. Grapes are harvested from altitudes between 400 and 800 meters a.s.l., vinified in small open vats, and undergo spontaneous fermentation before aging in concrete, allowing the wine to maintain its purity and vibrancy. The result is a medium-bodied red with fresh acidity, balanced tannins, and a solid structure. It’s alive with notes of red fruits, earth, cedar, and underbrush, creating a wine that’s rich, dynamic, and enveloping. A true testament to Fabio’s dedication and the spirit of Etna.
“Nerello Mascalese” 2021 Terre Siciliane Camarda
Camarda Winery is a small artisan gem rooted in the volcanic landscapes of Passopisciaro, on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. Graziella Camarda, who grew up immersed in the traditions of her great-grandfather’s vineyards, decided to transform the family’s legacy in 2011. Alongside her husband Salvatore and her father, she bottled their first Etna Rosso-a heartfelt tribute to her father and the generations before him.
The winery is spread across just over two hectares of vineyards, with one hectare in Contrada Sciaranuova and the rest nestled between two ancient lava flows from the 1500s and 1700s in Contrada Feudo di Mezzo and Contrada Porcaria. The vineyards, some over 60 years old, are situated on dry stone wall terraces at 650 meters above sea level. These vines are meticulously trained in the Alberello style and, in some parts, to espalier, capturing the unique character of the volcanic terroir.
Every step of the winemaking process at Camarda honors ancestral traditions, combining artisanal techniques with organic farming. The family works entirely by hand, from pruning to harvesting, using only copper and sulfur for disease prevention. Fermentation relies on indigenous yeasts, with minimal SO₂ added, ensuring the wines remain a pure expression of their origin. No filtering or clarifying is done, allowing the wine’s natural integrity to shine.
“Nerello Mascalese” 2021 Terre Siciliane
100% Nerello Mascalese, is a perfect example of this dedication. Crafted from hand-harvested grapes, it ferments spontaneously and is aged in used barriques to enhance its complexity. On the nose, the wine reveals an enchanting bouquet of violets, rose petals, herbs, black pepper, and wild berries. On the palate, it’s a full-bodied yet elegant experience, with vibrant acidity, persistent tannins, and a harmony of earth and spice that lingers beautifully.
“Contrada Crasà” 2022 Etna Rosso - Vigneti Vecchio
Let’s continue our volcanic adventure with Vigneti Vecchio, a small yet extraordinary winery. Lovingly run by Carmelo Vecchio and Rosa La Guzza-a couple bonded by both life and their shared passion for winemaking. Located on the northern slopes of Mount Etna in Solicchiata, an area renowned for having one of the highest densities of winemakers in the region, this family-run winery embodies the spirit of Etna’s rich winemaking heritage.
Carmelo’s journey is deeply rooted in the region. Raised in the heart of these vineyards, he began his winemaking career as a teenager, working at the nearby Passopisciaro winery. After 15 years of honing his craft, he and Rosa decided it was time to create something of their own. Starting with just over one hectare of inherited vines, they built their winery from the ground up, channeling their passion into creating wines that are both elegant and true to the volcanic soul of Mount Etna.
At Vigneti Vecchio, tradition is not just respected-it’s a way of life. Their vineyards, some with vines up to 130 years old, are cultivated using the traditional Alberello (bush vine) method and espalier. These low-yield Alberello vines are carefully tended by hand, without synthetic products or herbicides. The only treatments are minimal and natural, just sulfur and copper when needed-ensuring that the vines remain healthy and in harmony with their environment. Every step of the process reflects Carmelo and Rosa’s commitment to sustainability and their deep connection to the land where they grew up.
“Contrada Crasà” 2022 Etna Rosso
90% Nerello Mascalese, 10% indigenous varieties (Inzolia, Grecanico, Catarratto) This wine is a child of Etna North in its purest form, brought to life by two people who live, work and breathe their unique plot of land. Smoky and refined, with bright cherry tones and a hint of licorice, this wine carries a profound depth. The dark, earthy undertones leave a striking impression, while its tannins, delicate as fine ash, provide a balanced, lasting finish.
