Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe, and on its flanks, in the province of Catania, vines have grown for centuries on lava-stone terraces. The appellation, recognised in 1968 as the first DOC in Sicily, traces a crescent around the northern, eastern and southern slopes of the volcano, from Randazzo to Santa Venerina and on to Biancavilla, with vineyards between 400 and 1000 metres. The contrade, more than a hundred, are the territorial units that producers name on the label.
The Rosso is made from at least 80% Nerello Mascalese, completed by Nerello Cappuccio; the Rosato uses the same grapes. The Bianco requires at least 60% Carricante, with Catarratto and other white grapes; the Bianco Superiore, with at least 80% Carricante, can only be made in the municipality of Milo. There is also a sparkling wine and a Rosso Riserva with four years of ageing.
The reds are pale in colour, with aromas of cherry, herbs and ash, fine tannins and high acidity, and an elegance often compared to that of Nebbiolo. The whites are taut and mineral. They go well with grilled fish, white meats, pasta alla Norma and sheep's cheeses.
