Sicily

The island should not be reduced to hot-climate reds. Nero d’Avola and Grillo provide accessible introductions, while Frappato, Catarratto and other native varieties broaden the picture. Etna’s volcanic slopes, the Vittoria area and the western wine districts have distinct identities within Sicily’s wider wine landscape.

Sicilia DOC is a broad protected origin, while smaller appellations identify more specific places and wine rules. A bottle from Etna is therefore a different geographical claim from one labelled simply Sicilia. Start with a local red and white, then compare them with a more narrowly named origin to see the island’s range.