THE EUROPE’S HIGHEST ACTIVE VOLCANO
The Etna is an active volcano located on the island of Sicily, in Italy. With its 3,329 meters of height, it is the highest active volcano in Europe and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The history of the Etna is long and rich, with first evidence of volcanic activity dating back over 500,000 years ago. Throughout the centuries, the Etna has continued to erupt, creating unique landscapes and changing the face of the surrounding region.
During the summer, visitors can take excursions to reach the summit of the volcano, where they can admire spectacular views of the Sicilian coast and the Etna itself. Additionally, visitors can take bike, horseback or quad excursions to explore the surroundings of the volcano.
In winter, the Etna becomes a paradise for ski and snowboard enthusiasts, with numerous ski slopes and lift facilities open all year round. Additionally, visitors can take snowshoe excursions to explore the snow-covered landscapes of the volcano.
Furthermore, the Etna is famous for its production of DOC wines and for its restaurants that offer traditional Sicilian dishes, accompanied by local wines. In summary, the Etna is an ideal destination for those looking for an outdoor adventure, a cultural holiday or simply a break from daily routine.
WINE TASTING AT ETNA WINERIES
The Etna is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and a Etna Wine Tour is what you are looking for. With its active volcanoes and mineral-rich land, this region offers a unique environment for grape cultivation and the production of unique wines.
Among the hidden treasures of the Etna, there is certainly the wine “Etna” made with Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. These indigenous grape varieties, grown exclusively on the slopes of the Etna, give rise to wines with a unique character, characterized by an extraordinary aromatic complexity and a long longevity.
The Nerello Mascalese, in particular, is the flagship grape variety of the Etna and gives rise to wines of great elegance and finesse, with notes of ripe red fruit, spices, and minerality. The Nerello Cappuccio, on the other hand, is a less well-known but equally interesting grape variety, which gives the wine a more full-bodied structure and increased acidity.
To fully appreciate these unique wines, we recommend a Etna Wine Tour visiting the wineries of the Etna and participating in the tastings organized. You can taste the wines directly from the barrels, accompanied by local cheeses and cured meats, for an unforgettable experience.
Also, visiting the wineries of the Etna will give you the opportunity to discover the secrets of wine production and to get to know the producers closely, who will be happy to share their passion and experience with you.
And let’s not forget that visiting the beautiful cities at the foot of the Etna, such as Castiglione di Sicilia and Randazzo, is very easy and will allow you to discover the art, history, and culture of this wonderful region.
Imagine yourself now sitting in a winery, surrounded by barrels and the breathtaking view of the Etna, while savoring a glass of “Etna” wine made with Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. There’s nothing better to fully enjoy the treasures of the land and volcano of the Etna, accompanied by the beauty of the surrounding cities.
Foto di Giuseppe Famiani su Unsplash
