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Eloro is an important wine appellation in Sicily that has around 193 acres of vineyards and was given DOC status in 1994. Eloro's soil is mostly made up of limestone-clayey soils with high levels of organic matter. The climate conditions are temperate and humid with mild winters and hot summers. Eloro was originally a Greek settlement, and from a historical standpoint, it is an exciting place. The ruins of a Grecian theater, a temple dedicated to the goddess Demetra, a vestibule, some streets, and city walls can all be found here.

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Where is Eloro Wine Region?

Eloro is a Sicilian DOC region for red and rosé wines. The zone is spread in the municipalities of Noto, Pachino, Portopalo di Capo Passero, and Rosolini in the province of Siracusa and Ispica in the province of Ragusa. The towns of Pachino and Noto are part of the Pachino subzone. Frappato, Pignatello (Perricone), and Nero d'Avola are used to produce the two wine varietals Rosso and Rosato. Frappato, Nero d'Avola, and Pignatello are the three single-varietal wines that must have 90 percent of their respective varieties and, if necessary, a maximum of 10 percent of other authorized varieties.

The History of the Eloro Wine Region

The Eloro wine region is one of the oldest in Sicily and has a long history of wine production with viticulture dating back to Ancient Greece. It was first mentioned by Pliny the Elder in his work Naturalis Historia (77 AD). There are also some archaeological findings that date back to the 4th century BC that show evidence for grape cultivation in this area.

Terroir of Eloro

The region is located in a coastal area where the Mediterranean air prevails. The humidity and temperature are favorable for the grapevine to grow. The soil conditions in the Eloro wine region of Sicily are very suitable for producing wine. The combination of warm, dry summers and cold winters makes it easy for the vines to grow and produce healthy grapes. The temperature does not fluctuate much between seasons which allows for consistent quality. The soil in the region is also rich in minerals and has a pH level of 5.5 - 6 which allows for rapid fermentation of the grapes. 

Wine Characteristics of Eloro Wine

Eloro wines are known for their deep red color and rich flavor. This is because they use only native Sicilian varieties such as Nero d’Avola, Pignatello, and Frappato to create their wine blends.

  • Nero d'Avola is a popular variety of grape used to make wine in Italy. Nero d’Avola grapes are black and are grown in Crete and the Sicilian regions. Nero d’Avola is a generous grape, with good acidity and low levels of sugar, that gives wines more body and structure than some other reds.
  • Pignatello, also known as Perricone, is a red wine grape with high acidity, and characteristics of red berries, dirt, and herbs. It is similar to Barbera and often blended with Nero d'Avola.
  • Frappato can be found in the Southern Italian region of Sicily. This red wine grape is known for its fruity, light, and refreshing taste. When blended with other grapes such as Nero d’Avola, it creates a complex wine with light tannin and medium alcohol content.

Food to Pair with Eloro wine

Parmigiana di Melanzane

The parmigiana di melanzane dish is the perfect Italian-style pasta dish for vegetarians. It's made with thin slices of eggplant, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and a little garlic and onion. The eggplant is then baked in the oven until it's browned and crispy on the outside. Finally, this recipe is finished off with a generous drizzle of olive.

Amatriciana

Amatriciana is a type of pasta dish that originates from the Amatrice region in Italy. It is made by cooking guanciale (cured pork jowl) and onion in olive oil, then adding tomatoes, chili pepper, and pecorino cheese. The dish has been served with a variety of wines such as Chianti, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, or Frappato. The wine can be used to cook the pasta or just serve as an accompaniment to the dish.

Ragusano 

The Sicilian cheese called Ragusano is made from cow's milk that's been curdled with a small amount of sheep’s or goat's milk. The cheese has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can be eaten for dessert or used in cooking.  The cheese pairs well with wines produced in the Eloro region.

Places to Visit in Eloro Wine Region

Palazzo Castelluccio

Discover an 18th-century Sicilian palace that has been authentically restored and is still inhabited, as well as its collection of décor, objets d'art, and period works of art.

After the earthquake of 1693, which partially damaged the area, the Marquis di Lorenzo del Castelluccio constructed the Castelluccio Palace in 1782, which is home to one of the oldest families in Noto. Aside from the well-preserved murals on the ceilings and walls of the main first floor, the Palace's façade on Via Cavour does not have the same baroque design employed to recreate the city's major structures. Instead, it has the neo-classical taste that was fashionable in the late 18th century. All of the original ceramic floors from Sicily have been preserved. 

Laghetti Cavagrande

The Laghetti Cavagrande is a stunning location in the Sicilian countryside. It's a place where you can truly escape from the stresses of everyday life and focus on what's important. The laghetti is an inland area surrounded by natural beauty with lakes, forests, old-growth trees, and more. There is a trail leading to a natural pool with a waterfall that is popular for swimming.

Eloro Beach

Eloro Beach is a hidden gem on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is the perfect place to enjoy the stunning turquoise waters and lush beaches. The best time to visit Eloro Beach is during springtime when you can see thousands of flowers in bloom. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Eloro Wine Region

What is the climate like in Eloro?

The climate of Eloro is the Mediterranean. The summers are hot and dry with a little rain in July and August. The winters are mild, with a lot of rain, and the temperatures can drop below zero.

What kind of Wines are produced in Eloro?

Eloro is known for producing quality wines and the climate is just right. The region has a lot of sunshine which helps grapes to grow.

What kind of wine is Nero d Avola?

Nero d Avola is a dry red wine produced in southern Sicily. It is usually made from Nero d Avola grapes and has a deep ruby color.

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Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in Eloro