2014 · VIGNAdiMILO – Etna Bianco Superiore CASELLE DOC

I Vigneri di Salvo Foti is a small, family-owned estate on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, run by Salvo Foti and his sons Simone and Andrea. The family owns all its vineyards—about 7 ha total, with 5 ha planted—and produces only around 10,000 bottles annually. Their philosophy centers on “Vini Umani” (Human Wine), respecting both people and the environment through traditional, non‑invasive methods. Viticulture is entirely manual, using mules, chestnut posts, natural‑fiber ropes, and sheep‑manure fertilizer; no tractors, irrigation, or biotechnologies are employed. Winemaking takes place in a historic lava‑stone Palmento, relying on gravity, indigenous yeasts, and lunar phases for racking and bottling. The estate focuses on native Etnean varieties like Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, cultivated in the ancient alberello (bush‑vine) system across three distinct contrade at altitudes from 580 to 1,150 meters. This deeply artisanal approach reflects a lifelong dedication to preserving Etna’s viticultural heritage.