IN PRAISE OF VULCAN

Raise your glass to Mount Etna on this evening escape from Taormina to a prestigious wine estate. Gourmands will be treated to a delicious dinner and feast their eyes on fabulous views of the Sicilian landscape as it glows in the mellow light of the setting sun.

In ancient times both the Greeks and the Romans chose to settle here, in this beguiling, though perilous, corner of Sicily, because of the fertile farming land that resulted from volcanic lava and also for the singular beauty of this site. Perceived both as a constant threat by eastern Sicily’s inhabitants and, at the same time, as the very source of their livelihood, Mount Etna has deeply shaped the island’s history, architecture and culture, and continues to impact life here even today. Devastating catastrophes have indeed caused death and destruction. But the volcano has also provided the conditions for a unique and varied vegetation, a mine of plentiful building materials and the benefit of mineral-rich soil that has rewarded the islanders with exquisite wines.

In the afternoon your private chauffeur will pick you up at your accommodation and drive you to a renowned winery, located in a splendid setting, on the northern foothills of the volcano. The estate was established in the early 1990s by two brothers who had a vision of replacing their father’s hazelnut grove with vineyards and making the best of the terroir’s potential, by means of an innovative approach to viticulture, centred on quality. Today this winery ranks among Sicily’s most celebrated producers and has made a significant contribution to the region’s oenological reputation across the world. Native grape varieties of Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Carricante, together with international Syrah and Mondeuse, grow on lava stone, between three hundred and seven hundred metres above sea level, and are expertly turned into fine red, white and rosé wines.

Here, on a walk through the vineyards and a visit to the cellar, guests will learn about wine growing and ageing methods and discover the unique characteristics of the soil and climate that make Etna wines so special. Top off your evening with a tempting dinner featuring regional specialities and paired with a selection of the estate’s wines… Long live Vulcan!

After dinner your private chauffeur will drive you back to your accommodation in Taormina.