A lovely day in Vittoria

The Vittoria DOC was the destination for our first full day which be the longest in journey time – a trip south and west from Siracusa for about 90 minutes.

First stop was the organic and natural and biodynamic estate of Arianna Occhipinti. Arianna has created a very reputable and highly regarded estate over the past 20 years despite a lot of opposition and disbelief that she could achieve what she wanted. Now leading the way in sustainability, the wines were fascinating and the estate was beautiful. Marica hosted our visit with great  charm and very clearly explained the philosophy, chatted about the vineyards, olive groves, rare varieties of wheat and carob and talked us through some winery operations before we all headed into their tasing room.

A fascinating array of wines ensued. A white kicked us off – made from the rare Albanello grape (not to be confused with the Alberello training method!) – unfiltered and unfined – there was a mix of opinion. The second white was a stunning 100% Grillo made from a small plot 500 metres above sea level – utterly stunning! A couple of reds then followed – A pure Nero d’Avola and a Frappato/Nero d’Avola blend – both great examples of top class wine. Super visit!

From Occhipinti, it was just a ten minute hop to Tenuta Bastonaca, another family owned estate situated right in the heart of Vittoria and more importantly, within the Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG – Sicily’s only DOCG zone. Owner Silvana greeted us with her characteristic passion and enthusiasm and took us for a brief walk around the small family estate. They play classical music to their barrels (Mozart mainly) as well as having a small plot of Grenache and Tannat – which we weren’t expecting!

We tasted their wines over lunch with a delicious Grillo pairing with the antipasti, Cerasuolo di Vittoria with the risotto, their Sud blend with the beef. The wines were top class and very reasonably priced for their quality. 

One final surprise was to come – the chef came out and made a traditional seasonal dessert cooked with fresh grape must, semolina, almonds, cinnamon and mixed nuts. A delicious finish to our lunch and day.