2022 · Luci Luci

Founded in 2005 by Pucci Giuffrida, Al-Cantàra is a boutique winery on Etna’s northern slope, where volcanic soils and altitude shape its wines. The estate works organically and biodynamically, with entirely manual vineyard management, selective hand-harvesting, green manure, and projects including phytoremediation, solar energy and the preservation of historic “relic” vines. Its focus is on native Etna varieties—Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Carricante—alongside Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, with many wines made from single varieties. Minimal-intervention techniques include soft pressing under inert gas and restrained use of new oak, with ageing in French oak and Etna chestnut. Giuffrida’s vision connects wine with Sicilian art and poetry, reflected in the winery’s labels and cultural activities.