About the producer
For centuries, the Nicolosi family has called the slopes of Mount Etna home, crafting wines that tell a story of tradition and passion. Marco, the current guardian of this legacy and a 10th-generation winemaker, oversees operations with a commitment to excellence. Situated in the revered enclave of Milo, Barone di Villagrande cultivates wines that beautifully reflect the essence of the unique terroir. Arriving as migrants with a mandate from the church to metamorphose the region from a desolate and uncultivated landscape into a thriving garden, the family embarked on this noble mission, resulting in the stewardship of the 18 hectares of splendid vineyards they oversee today.
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Following the path paved by his father, Marco Nicolosi assumes the role of the present-day winemaker. Together with his team, he perpetuates the family's heritage and dedication to the land, fashioning wines that harmonize traditional principles with contemporary techniques and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.
In the Vineyard
Organic biodynamic practices
Organic farming practices are utilized but the winery is not certified
Total area under vine
26 Hectares on Mt Etna: 18 Hectares on Milo, 2 hectares in Mt Ilice, 6 hectares on Mt Arso. 2 Hectares in Salina Island
Location of vineyards
Etna Vineyards - Milo, Salina - Santa Marina Monte Ilice - Trecastagni Monte Arso - Nicolosi
Soil details
Etna - volcanic soil with basaltic stones, iron, copper and zinc Salina - volcanic soil with pumice and sand
Grapes
Carricante, Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Mantellato
In the Cellar
Winemaker
Marco Nicolosi Asumundo
Yeast utilized
Indigenous yeasts used for all wines
Filtration stabilization
Racking and cardboard filters are used and natural cold tartaric stabilization
Fermentation & aging vessels
Fermentation and aging in stainless steel for all wines aside from the Bianco Contrada, Contrada wines are aged in 500L French oak and Sicilian acacia barrels. Rosso Contrada in 500L Chestnut wood barrels
Additional notes
Winemaking style
Following tradition while seeking areas for improvement, Marco takes a natural approach to preserve the integrity of his wines and celebrate the history and culture of the region.
Wines produced
Etna Bianco, Etna Bianco Contrada Villagrande, Etna Rosato, Etna Rosso, Etna Rosso Contrada Villagrande, Etna Rosso Contrada Monte Ilice, Etna Rosso DOC Contrada Monte Arso, Salina Bianco, Malvasia delle Lipari Passito
Total production
Depending on the vintage, roughly 100,000 bottles/year
