Discover the Noto wine sub-region of Italy

about this subregion

The Noto DOC is a captivating wine region located in southeastern Sicily, Italy. It coveres covers the municipalities of Noto, Rosolini, Pachino and Avola, all located in the province of Syracuse. Known for its historical charm, picturesque landscapes, and exceptional wines, the Noto DOC offers a unique and enriching wine experience.

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Sicily, the Noto DOC encompasses an area surrounding the town of Noto, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its stunning Baroque architecture. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, with cooling influences from the nearby sea.

The terroir of the Noto DOC is defined by diverse soil compositions. The region's vineyards are predominantly planted on calcareous soils, which provide excellent drainage and impart a distinctive mineral character to the wines. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the region's gentle slopes also contribute to the complexity and unique flavor profiles of the wines.

The Noto DOC is renowned for its production of both red and white wines. Red wines from the region often feature Nero d'Avola as the primary grape variety, showcasing its full-bodied character, dark fruit flavors, and velvety tannins. Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a red blend of Nero d'Avola and Frappato, is a particularly noteworthy wine from the region, known for its elegance and balance.

In terms of white wines, the Noto DOC offers refreshing and aromatic options. The region's white wines are primarily made from indigenous grape varieties such as Moscato Bianco and Insolia (also known as Ansonica). These wines display vibrant citrus notes, floral aromas, and a crisp, lively acidity.

The Noto DOC's winemakers take pride in their commitment to quality and sustainability. Many producers follow organic or biodynamic practices, respecting the land and the grapes to create wines that express the true essence of the terroir.

Visiting the Noto DOC is an opportunity to explore beautiful vineyards, visit charming wineries, and immerse oneself in the region's rich winemaking heritage. The combination of outstanding wines, cultural treasures, and warm Sicilian hospitality makes the Noto DOC a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable experience.

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The climate is warm, arid and Mediterranean. The annual temperature is usually around 17.6°C, while the highest temperatures are generally recorded between July and August. On the other hand, the annual rainfall is around 400 mm, being more concentrated between autumn and winter.

Noto DOC showcases a diverse range of soil types that contribute to the unique terroir of the region:

Calcareous Soils: Calcareous soils, also known as limestone soils, are prevalent in the Noto DOC. These soils are rich in calcium carbonate, providing good drainage and contributing to the overall structure of the wines. Calcareous soils are often found in areas with hilly terrain, where the vineyards benefit from the cooling influence of elevation.
Clayey Soils: Clayey soils are present in certain areas of the Noto DOC. These soils have smaller particle sizes, which allow them to retain water more effectively. Clay soils provide vines with consistent access to moisture during drier periods and contribute to the development of wines with depth and richness.
Sandy Soils: Sandy soils are found in parts of the Noto DOC, particularly in coastal areas. These soils have larger particle sizes, resulting in excellent drainage. Sandy soils warm up quickly, allowing for optimal grape ripening. Wines grown in sandy soils often exhibit vibrant fruit flavors and softer tannins.
Alluvial Soils: Alluvial soils, formed by the deposition of sediments from rivers and streams, can be found in certain vineyard sites within the Noto DOC. These soils are typically fertile and well-drained, providing a suitable environment for vine growth and grape development.
Marl and Marlstone: Marl and marlstone are present in some areas of the Noto DOC. These soils are composed of a mixture of clay and limestone, offering good drainage and mineral-rich characteristics that contribute to the complexity and structure of the wines.

The combination of these various soil types, along with the influence of the Mediterranean climate and the region's grape varieties, shapes the distinct flavors and characteristics of the wines produced in the Noto DOC. Winemakers in the region harness these diverse soils to create wines that showcase the unique terroir and express the nuances of the Noto DOC.

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In the Noto DOC, numerous grape varieties are cultivated, representing both red and white wine production. The most planted grape varieties in the Noto DOC are as follows:

Red Grape Varieties:

Nero d'Avola: Nero d'Avola is the flagship red grape variety of Sicily and holds a significant presence in the Noto DOC. It is known for producing full-bodied red wines with dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and good acidity. Nero d'Avola wines from Noto often showcase depth and complexity.
Frappato: Frappato is an indigenous Sicilian red grape variety that thrives in the Noto DOC. It is often used as a blending partner with Nero d'Avola to create the renowned Cerasuolo di Vittoria wine. Frappato contributes to the wine's elegance, vibrant acidity, and aromatic red fruit notes.

White Grape Varieties:

Moscato Bianco: Moscato Bianco, also known as Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, is a white grape variety planted in the Noto DOC. It is used to produce aromatic white wines that exhibit intense floral aromas, musky notes, and sweet fruit flavors. Moscato Bianco wines can be enjoyed as both still and sparkling.
Insolia (Ansonica): Insolia, also known as Ansonica, is an indigenous white grape variety found in Sicily, including the Noto DOC. It contributes to the production of dry white wines with crisp acidity, citrus flavors, and herbal undertones. Insolia wines from Noto can display a distinct minerality and freshness.

These grape varieties represent the most widely planted and influential cultivars in the Noto DOC, shaping the character and quality of the wines produced in the region. The combination of Nero d'Avola, Frappato, Moscato Bianco, and Insolia showcases the diversity and uniqueness of the Noto DOC's viticultural offerings.

In the sun-kissed region of Noto DOC in Sicily, a trio of exquisite wines graces the tables of wine enthusiasts worldwide – the red, white, and sparkling wines, each showcasing the essence of this enchanting terroir.

For the red wines, Nero d'Avola, known locally as Calabrese, takes center stage, contributing a minimum of 65% to the blend. This noble grape variety infuses the wines with rich dark fruit flavors, velvety tannins, and a touch of spice. The blend is complemented by other authorized non-red grape varieties, adding depth and complexity to the final wine. The result is a luscious and robust red wine that captures the warmth of the Sicilian sun and the unique character of the Noto DOC region.

Meanwhile, the white wines of Noto DOC shine in their purity, crafted from 100% Moscato Bianco. This aromatic grape variety envelops the wines with enchanting floral and fruity notes, captivating the senses with every sip. The white wines of Noto DOC are a celebration of freshness and elegance, offering a delightful and refreshing experience on any occasion.

Lastly, Noto DOC's sparkling wines enchant with their effervescence, also crafted from 100% Moscato Bianco. The bubbles enhance the grape's aromatic character, creating a vibrant and uplifting wine with an irresistible bouquet. With their delicate sweetness and lively bubbles, the sparkling wines of Noto DOC add a touch of celebration to any gathering, making them a favorite choice for toasts and joyful moments.

In the heart of Sicily, the Noto DOC wines are a testament to the region's winemaking prowess and the dedication of its vintners. Each glass embodies the harmony between grape and terroir, inviting wine enthusiasts on a captivating journey through the flavors and aromas of this extraordinary corner of Italy.

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Red Grape Varieties:

White Grape Varieties: