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What is Erice DOC?
Erice DOC is a fascinating Sicilian wine appellation located in the western province of Trapani. Perched at higher elevations around the medieval hilltop town of Erice, this DOC is celebrated for aromatic white wines from Catarratto, structured reds from Nero d’Avola, and fragrant sweet wines from Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria). Its unique combination of altitude, sea breezes, and limestone soils creates wines that balance freshness, minerality, and depth—making Erice a must-know name among Sicilian wine appellations.
History and Origins
Though officially recognized as a DOC in 2004, winemaking in the Erice area dates back to Phoenician and Greek settlers. Medieval monks helped refine vineyard cultivation around Mount Erice, while Arab influences introduced Zibibbo, now essential to Sicily’s sweet wine culture. Today, the appellation combines traditional Sicilian grapes with international varieties, creating a dynamic bridge between heritage and innovation.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The Erice DOC sits in Trapani province, western Sicily, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Vineyards stretch across rolling hills at 200–600 meters above sea level, benefiting from cooler nights and strong Mediterranean breezes. This terroir—limestone soils with clay deposits—produces wines with:
- Crisp acidity in whites
- Depth and structure in reds
- Intense aromatics in sweet wines
The Grape (or Blend)
- Catarratto – the flagship white, offering citrus, floral, and almond notes
- Nero d’Avola – Sicily’s bold red, rich with cherry, spice, and earthiness
- Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria) – key for aromatic sweet and sparkling wines
- Other grapes: Grillo, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Merlot
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Whites (Bianco, Catarratto, Grillo, Chardonnay): Dry, fresh styles with DOC requirement of ≥60% Catarratto in some blends
- Reds (Rosso, Nero d’Avola, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon): Must include ≥60% Nero d’Avola or Syrah
- Rosato: Crafted from Nero d’Avola, Syrah, or blends
- Zibibbo Dolce & Spumante: Sweet still and sparkling wines showcasing Muscat aromatics
- Erice Rosso Riserva: Requires ≥85% Nero d’Avola or Syrah, aged minimum 2 years
Key Facts at a Glance
- Region: Sicily, Province of Trapani
- Established: 2004
- Altitude: 200–600 m a.s.l.
- Signature Grapes: Catarratto, Nero d’Avola, Zibibbo
- Wine Styles: White, Red, Rosato, Dolce, Spumante
- Climate: Mediterranean with cooling sea breezes
Tasting Notes
- Erice Catarratto Bianco: Lively citrus, wildflowers, almond finish
- Erice Nero d’Avola Rosso: Ripe cherry, blackberry, spice, firm tannins
- Erice Zibibbo Dolce: Orange blossom, honey, dried apricot, sweet but balanced
Serving & Pairing
- Catarratto whites: Serve chilled with seafood crudo, grilled swordfish, or Sicilian caponata
- Nero d’Avola reds: Pair with lamb, aged Pecorino, or pasta alla Norma
- Zibibbo Dolce: Perfect with cannoli, almond pastries, or blue cheeses
Where to Buy & Pricing
Erice DOC wines are increasingly available outside Italy, especially from Trapani-based cooperatives and boutique estates. Expect pricing in the $15–25 range for whites and reds, with Zibibbo Dolce and Riserva bottlings at $25–40.
- Online retailers: Wine.com, Vivino, Italian Wine Central.
FAQ on Erice DOC
- What grapes are in Erice DOC wines?
Primarily Catarratto, Nero d’Avola, and Zibibbo, with some international blends. - Is Erice DOC the same as Marsala DOC?
No—Marsala focuses on fortified wines, while Erice DOC specializes in dry whites, bold reds, and sweet Muscat wines. - Can you visit wineries in Erice?
Yes—wine tourism is growing, with vineyard tours and tastings often paired with trips to Erice’s medieval hilltop town.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Erice’s medieval walls and castle overlook the vineyards, making it one of Sicily’s most scenic wine regions.
- The town is also famous for its pastry tradition—Genovesi Ericine, custard-filled pastries, pair beautifully with Zibibbo Dolce.
- The region’s wine cooperatives are vital, helping small growers preserve heritage grapes while competing internationally.
Producer Spotlights (New Section)
- Cantine Pellegrino – A Trapani-based producer with an Erice line, showcasing Catarratto and Nero d’Avola.
- Fazio Wines – Known for high-altitude Erice Catarratto and Syrah.
Cantine Paolini – A cooperative producing accessible, quality Erice DOC wines.
Planning a trip to Sicily? Add Erice DOC wines to your tasting list.
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Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Sicilia.
