Nero d'Avola, Syrah, Grillo, ViognierAppointment onlySanta Cristina Gela, Palermo hills
Organic estate a few kilometres south of Palermo in an ancient family baglio; private introductory wine courses and guided tastings across highland, Noto and Etna terroirs.
Tip: Their organic certification spans all vineyard sites; sustainable agriculture is central to the tour narrative.
Nerello Mascalese, CarricanteAppointment onlyPassopisciaro, Etna Nord
Superbly restored 19th-century palmento at the heart of the estate; 18 hectares of volcanic-soil vineyards with separate contrade vinifications poured in the historic stone press building.
Tip: One of the finest palmento restorations on Etna; visit pairs well with a Passopisciaro village walk.
Nerello Mascalese, Carricante, Nero d'AvolaAppointment onlyTrecastagni, Etna Sud
Organic Etna winery offering contrade immersions, underground cellar tours and a sparkling-wine focus; ancient Monte Gorna palmento adds heritage depth.
Tip: The sparkling Etna Rosato Brut Methode Classique tasting is a Nicosia signature.
ZibibboAppointment onlyKhamma, Pantelleria
Seasonal cellar set in a traditional palazzotto pantesco with vaulted dammuso ceilings; tasting experiences include Ben Ryé Passito di Pantelleria DOC and dry Zibibbo poured overlooking UNESCO-listed vineyards.
Tip: Open May-September only; the Ben Ryé sotto le stelle 100-minute evening experience is exceptional.
Nero d'Avola, SyrahAppointment onlyVal di Noto
170-hectare Val di Noto estate with underground cellar and guest accommodation; Nero d'Avola specialist with single-variety and blended expressions in a dramatic desert-landscape setting.
Tip: Request the underground cellar tour; the estate guesthouse is excellent for overnight stays.
Nero Ossidiana, Bianco Pomice, Malvasia delle LipariAppointment onlyQuattropani, Lipari
Volcanic Aeolian Islands estate with 20 ha of organically farmed ancient alberello vines; vineyard picnics and sunset tastings with panoramic sea views.
Tip: The Bianco Pomice from Malvasia and Carricante and the evening tasting format make this the most dramatic tasting room in Sicily.