Between the great beaches, unique culture and excellent food and drink scene, there are plenty of good reasons to book a honeymoon in Sicily. In this post, we’ll give you an introduction to one of the best things about the island: its great range of wines. Read on to learn more.
Sicilian Wines
Though it’s Italy’s largest region, Sicilian wine often goes overlooked, due to a mix of historical underdevelopment and strong competition from the mainland. Still, the past couple decades have seen growing interest in wine made on the island, and the unique mix of cultures afforded by its Mediterranean location help produce some truly unique flavours.
Marsala
The most famous Sicilian drink, marsala might be unusually strong at around 20% by volume, but it’s perfect for any meal at any time. Maybe start a bottle while cooking your partner a romantic meal? Cooking with local ingredients is a great way to make your honeymoon in Sicily memorable.
Top Tip: It’s well worth exploring the different varieties of marsala, with many aged in wooden casks for five years and older. If you’re ready to splash out, super-rare vintage bottles periodically pop up in the area.
Malvasia
Bottled near Messina in the northeast of the island, this full-bodied, sweet wine is perfect for a romantic evening out. Wrap up a cosy couples’ meal with a few glasses of this subtle, warm, romantic wine.
Top Tip: A little less strong than marsala, malvasia makes a great dessert wine.
Chardonnay
Another wine well worth exploring, Chardonnays can be sweet or dry, and we would recommend adding a trip around a vineyard to your honeymoon in Sicily to get a taste of the different variations. One of the most popular grapes on the mainland, Sicilian Chardonnay reflects a change in the island’s wine scene, with makers increasingly seeking to compete with more established Italian classics.
Zibibbo
With a stronger, bolder taste than many white grapes, Zibibbo can also be fortified into a stronger dessert option. It suits island lifestyle well, and is popular among locals. Try it to add some local culture to your honeymoon in Sicily.
Did You Know: as with much food and drink on the island, Zibibbo’s origins remain unclear – but it was likely brought to Sicily centuries ago by Arab travellers.
Primitivo
Another drink with a lot of movement in its history, this usually dry grape likely originated in the Balkans, and served as the basis for California’s popular Zinfandel grape. A favourite among connoisseurs and newbies alike, Primitivo is perfect for tastings.
As you can see, Sicilians are spoilt for choice when it comes to good wines, and a honeymoon in Sicily is the perfect chance to sample some of the island’s best.
John Dixon is the Managing Director of Prestige Holidays, and has been working alongside his advisors for 30 years to craft luxury getaways in various resorts across the globe. Whether you’re looking for a bespoke honeymoon in Sicily or a culture-fuelled escorted tour elsewhere, this company will provide you with the very best.
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