Etna: Urban Winery, Vineyards Walk & Wine Tasting at Sunset

Explore the captivating heritage and flavors of Sicily’s Mount Etna region with an unforgettable urban winery tour and sunset wine tasting. Stroll through picturesque vineyards, uncover the rich history of Sicilian winemaking, and delight in a curated selection of wines perfectly paired with gourmet tapas. As the sun dips below the horizon, learn about the breathtaking views and uncover the magic that makes this region truly unique.

Key Points

• Guided tour through urban vineyards between Catania and Mount Etna, offering stunning views and insights into the region’s winemaking history.
• Exploration of 19th-century dry-stone buildings, highlighting the traditional Sicilian architectural styles and their connection to the land.
• Discovery of the 18th-century Palmento, a historic Sicilian winery showcasing ancient grape-crushing techniques and the evolution of winemaking.
• Curated wine tasting experience featuring a selection of four wines, including sparkling white, Etna white, Etna Rosé, and IGT red, paired with gourmet tapas.
• Relaxing tasting in the courtyard or garden with breathtaking views of Mount Etna, providing a unique and immersive wine experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Winery Tour and Vineyard Walk

The guided tour begins with a stroll through the urban vineyards nestled between the city of Catania and the iconic Mount Etna.

Guests explore the unique landscape, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Along the way, they discover the 19th-century dry-stone buildings, learning about the history and winemaking traditions of the region.

The tour then leads to the 18th-century Palmento, a traditional Sicilian winery, where participants explore the intricate process of winemaking, dating back to 1790.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide shares captivating stories and insights, bringing the winery’s rich heritage to life.

Exploring the 19th-Century Dry-Stone Buildings

As the tour winds through the urban vineyards, guests encounter the captivating 19th-century dry-stone buildings that dot the landscape.

These structures, built with precision and care, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. The guide explains the intricate construction techniques, highlighting:

• The use of local volcanic stone, expertly fitted together without mortar to create sturdy, weatherproof walls.

• The innovative design, featuring narrow windows and thick walls to regulate temperature and humidity, essential for winemaking.

• The preservation of traditional Sicilian architectural styles, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Exploring these historical gems provides a deeper appreciation for the winery’s enduring connection to the land and its centuries-old winemaking traditions.

Discovering the 18th-Century Palmento

One of the highlights of the tour is the discovery of the 18th-century Palmento, a traditional Sicilian winery that has stood the test of time.

Guests explore this historic building, learning about its role in the region’s winemaking heritage. The Palmento features dry-stone construction, a testament to the ingenuity of Sicilian vintners.

Participants discover the ancient techniques used to crush grapes and ferment the must, gaining insights into the evolution of winemaking on Mount Etna.

This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with the rich history and enduring traditions that define the Etna Urban Winery.

Winemaking Techniques and History

Although the Etna Urban Winery boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century, its winemaking techniques have continuously evolved to embrace modern innovations.

The traditional Palmento, a massive stone structure, serves as the centerpiece, where grapes are crushed and fermented using gravity.

Today, the winery combines time-honored methods with state-of-the-art equipment, including:

• Temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks for precise fermentation

• Flexible membrane presses to gently extract the juice

• Cutting-edge bottling and labeling machinery to ensure quality and efficiency

This seamless blend of past and present enables the winery to craft exceptional wines that capture the essence of Mount Etna’s unique terroir.

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Wine Tasting Experience

The wine tasting experience at the Etna Urban Winery immerses visitors in the rich flavors and aromas of the region’s finest vintages.

Guests savor a curated selection of four wines – a sparkling white, an Etna white, an Etna Rosé, and an IGT red – each expertly paired with gourmet tapas.

As they relax in the courtyard or garden, overlooking the majestic Mount Etna, participants delight in the nuanced tasting notes and learn about the winemaking history and techniques dating back to 1790.

The tasting delivers a harmonious blend of flavors, elevating the senses and providing an unforgettable oenological experience.

Gourmet Tapas Pairings

As guests savor the curated selection of wines at the Etna Urban Winery, they’re treated to a delightful pairing of gourmet tapas that elevate the tasting experience.

The resident chef, Leonardo, has carefully crafted small dishes to complement the wines, including:

• Bruschetta with sun-dried tomato tapenade and balsamic reduction

• Sicilian arancini (rice balls) filled with melted cheese

• Prosciutto-wrapped figs drizzled with local honey

The tapas showcase the fresh, seasonal ingredients of the region, providing a flavorful complement to the Etna wines and creating a harmonious sensory experience for attendees.

Ambiance and Views of Mount Etna

Complementing the delectable gourmet tapas, the ambiance at Etna Urban Winery is nothing short of captivating.

Nestled between the slopes of Mount Etna and the bustling city of Catania, the winery offers breathtaking views of the iconic volcano. Guests can relax in the charming courtyard or lush garden, sipping on the region’s finest wines as they gaze upon the towering peak.

The historic dry-stone buildings and 18th-century Palmento add to the authentic Sicilian atmosphere, immersing visitors in the rich winemaking heritage of the area.

The setting perfectly complements the tasting experience, creating a truly memorable encounter.

Booking and Logistics

To book the tour, visitors can easily reserve their spot through the provided "reserve now & pay later" option, which allows them to secure their place without immediate payment.

This convenient booking process makes it simple to plan the experience, with the flexibility to pay later.

For those seeking hassle-free transportation, shuttle service from/to central Catania is available for an extra fee from April to October.

Participants should come prepared with:

• Comfortable, closed-toed shoes suitable for walking

• Weather-appropriate attire for the outdoor portions of the tour

• An appetite for delicious Etna wines and gourmet tapas

Ask Away

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

The winery tour is open to guests of all ages, but the wine tasting is limited to those 18 and older. Children are welcome to join the tour and explore the vineyards and facilities.

Can the Wine Tasting Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

The winery can accommodate dietary restrictions for the wine tasting. Guests should notify the staff in advance, and the chef will prepare alternative dishes to suit their needs, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in English, Italian, and French. Guests can request a language preference when booking to ensure they receive a guided experience tailored to their needs.

Is There an Option to Purchase Wine at the End of the Tour?

Yes, guests can purchase wines from the Etna Urban Winery at the end of the tour. The winery offers its selection of Etna wines, including the ones tasted during the experience, for guests to take home and enjoy.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no formal dress code, but comfortable, closed-toed shoes are recommended for walking through the vineyards. Participants should dress in casual, weather-appropriate attire to enjoy the winery experience comfortably.

Final Words

This unforgettable Etna experience allows visitors to enjoy the region’s rich winemaking history and captivating natural beauty. From exploring the 19th-century dry-stone buildings to savoring a curated selection of wines amidst the stunning backdrop of Mount Etna at sunset, this tour offers a unique and immersive glimpse into the heritage and flavors of this exceptional Sicilian destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: