Palmento Costanzo

Passopisciaro, Etna

Nestled on the dramatic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, the Palmento Costanzo Winery stands as a testament to the rich winemaking heritage of the region. With a history dating back to the late 19th century, this winery has become a symbol of excellence in the production of Etna wines.

The winery is located in the heart of the Etna wine region, which is known for its unique terroir characterized by volcanic soils, high altitudes, and varying microclimates. These natural attributes contribute to the distinctive and complex flavors of the wines produced at Palmento Costanzo.

The winery is a family-owned and operated establishment, reflecting the deep connection between the Costanzo family and their land. They have a profound respect for tradition, combined with a modern approach to winemaking that captures the essence of Etna’s terroir. It’s this blend of heritage and innovation that sets Palmento Costanzo apart.

Palmento Costanzo’s vineyards are situated on the northern side of Mount Etna, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 meters above sea level. This wide range in altitude allows the winery to cultivate different grape varieties, each taking advantage of the specific microclimates and volcanic soils found at different altitudes. Notable varietals produced here include Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Carricante, and Catarratto.

One of the most striking aspects of Palmento Costanzo is their commitment to sustainable and organic viticulture. The winery employs eco-friendly practices, respecting the natural environment and maintaining the ecological balance of the vineyards. They also embrace low-intervention winemaking techniques, focusing on the purity of their fruit and minimal manipulation during the winemaking process.

The iconic structure of the winery itself is a historical palmento, a traditional Sicilian stone structure used for crushing grapes and fermenting wine. The preservation of this architectural heritage is an ode to the winery’s roots and its dedication to authenticity. Visitors can explore the palmento, gaining insight into the history and craftsmanship that defines the Etna winemaking tradition.

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About

The vineyards of Palmento Costanzo are located in Contrada Santo Spirito, in Passopisciaro, a small town near Castiglione di Sicilia. This is the heart of the Parco Naturale dell’Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Etna is teeming with biodiversity: from the vineyards on the hills to the perennial glaciers, passing through olive and pistachio groves, forests of holm oak, birches, oaks and chestnut trees that shelter rich wildlife. Over 3,000 meters, only rocks thrive: this is the volcanic desert of ash and lapilli, at times traversed by blazing lava, which the Etna uses to constantly change shape and reveal its unyielding power.
Read more on GrapeCollective.com
Valeria Agosta owner of Palmento Costanzo