Etna Wines Masterclass at Expovina: Discovering Authentic Italian Wines

My Etna Wines Masterclass at Expovina was one of those rare moments where passion, knowledge, and pure emotion meet in a single glass. Etna is not just another Italian wine region — it is one of the most dynamic and extraordinary territories in Italy, a volcanic landscape that shapes wines with unmistakable elegance, minerality and tension. For wine lovers searching for authentic Italian wines, Etna represents a world of its own.

During the masterclass, we explored the unique elements that define the region: high-altitude vineyards reaching up to 1,200 metres, dramatic day–night temperature swings, and soils composed of ancient lava, ash, pumice and basalt. This combination creates wines with a freshness and verticality rarely associated with Southern Italy. Etna is a place where Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and Carricante express purity, finesse, and a Burgundian sense of terroir — making the region one of the rising stars in the world of Italian wines.

A central highlight of the session was the focus on Al-Cantàra, one of the most expressive and artistic wineries on Etna. Known for their poetic labels and their philosophy that “wine and art are born from the same inspiration,” Al-Cantàra produces Etna wines that perfectly reflect the volcanic soul of the territory. Their Etna Bianco stands out for its citrusy precision and saline vibrancy, while their Etna Rosso showcases the elegance and complexity that make Nerello Mascalese so captivating. Tasting their wines allowed the audience to understand how a single contrada, soil colour, and altitude can completely transform the character of Italian volcanic wines.

Throughout the masterclass, guests explored different micro-terroirs — from the northern slopes of Randazzo to the eastern areas around Milo. This deep dive helped illustrate why Etna has become one of the most studied and admired regions among sommeliers, collectors and enthusiasts of fine Italian wines.

What participants enjoyed most was the revelation that Etna wines combine northern finesse with southern sunshine — a duality that makes them incredibly food-friendly and surprisingly ageworthy. Their minerality, precision and aromatic complexity make them stand out dramatically in the landscape of Italian wines, offering a tasting experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.

Sharing this journey at Expovina, surrounded by passionate wine lovers, producers, and the outstanding wines of Al-Cantàra, was an honour and a joy. Etna is a region that surprises, seduces and evolves constantly — and its wines continue to set new benchmarks for quality within Italy.

If you wish to discover Etna wines, explore our curated selection on our website your destination for authentic, high-quality Italian wines delivered across Switzerland.

Taste. Feel. Italy.