Terre Constantino in Mount Etna
Discovering the Heart of Etna at Terra Costantino
Perfectly situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the volcanic majesty of Mount Etna Terra Costantino reflects the deep connection between man and the land. Soon after I arrived I was shown a “wall of stone” that exposes the dynamic soil types of this spectacular estate … a diversity of soils that along with other factors create the fabulous aromas and flavors I later tasted in the glass.
As the first organic winery on Etna, Terra Costantino has long been a pioneer in sustainable winemaking, and its story is one of passion, tradition, and a profound respect for the natural world.
The history of the winery begins over 40 years ago when Dino Costantino stumbled upon the ancient vineyards of Contrada Blandano, with their millstone dating back to 1699.
What began as a chance discovery turned into a lifelong love affair with the land, leading Dino to restore the 10 hectares of vineyards that look out over the Mediterranean. These vineyards had been producing wines for centuries, but it was Dino and now his son Fabio who helped bring this heritage back to life.
Today, the winery remains family-owned, and the dedication to organic farming has deepened over time. In 2000, Terra Costantino became the first winery on Mount Etna to achieve organic certification, a milestone that reflected their commitment to the environment. The vineyards are rich with biodiversity, surrounded by wild herbs, olive trees, and medicinal plants, and their wines are produced in harmony with nature.
A unique Terrior
The vineyards of Terra Costantino are located between 450 and 500 meters above sea level in Viagrande, on the slopes of Mount Etna. The volcanic soil, filled with minerals and nutrients, creates the ideal conditions for growing Carricante, Catarratto, Nerello Mascalese, and Nerello Cappuccio—the four grape varieties that thrive on Etna’s slopes.
These native varieties are perfectly suited to the unique microclimates of the region, which are shaped by the altitude, ventilation, and temperature fluctuations that come with being so close to the volcano.
In 2020, the estate expanded with the addition of Contrada Praino in Milo, a stunning two-hectare vineyard that produces Etna Bianco Superiore, a wine of exceptional elegance and complexity.
A Sustainable Approach
Sustainability is at the core of Terra Costantino’s philosophy. While organic farming is the foundation of their approach, the winery goes beyond that to implement a range of sustainable practices throughout the year.
This includes everything from water conservation efforts to maintaining biodiversity in the vineyard, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits both the vines and the surrounding environment.
The Tasting
Terra Costantino’s wines reflect the volcanic soil and the terroir of Mount Etna. The winery focuses on producing elegant, balanced wines that express the unique characteristics of the region.
- Etna DOC Bianco: Made from Carricante and Catarratto, this white wine has a straw-yellow color with green reflections. On the nose, it offers delicate aromas of white fruit, while the palate is marked by crisp acidity and a subtle minerality, reminiscent of the volcanic ash in the soil.
- Etna DOC Rosso: This red wine, made from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, develops a rich ruby red color with hints of garnet as it ages. The nose is filled with floral notes, complemented by undertones of cocoa and coffee. The volcanic influence is present in the savory, mineral-driven finish, balanced by smooth tannins.
- Etna DOC Rosato: A pale pink rosé, this wine offers bright aromas of red fruits like cherry, along with a refreshing acidity and lively finish. It’s the perfect summer wine for warm Mediterranean afternoons.
Terra Costantino’s dedication to organic, sustainable winemaking, combined with the rich volcanic terroir, results in wines that are both authentic and extraordinary—an essential stop for any wine lover visiting Mount Etna.
This includes everything from water conservation efforts to maintaining biodiversity in the vineyard, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits both the vines and the surrounding environment.
