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It was from Mamertino that the drink valued by the elite of this great city was once delivered to Rome. In ancient times, the coastal areas in the northeast of Sicily were prestigious wine-growing centres. Mamertino di Milazzo wine region’s vineyards were in fourth place in the hierarchy of the best crus of Ancient Rome. Mamertino wine was served at the banquets of Julius Caesar. Now, DOC Martino di Milazzo, or Mamertino, wine zone, centred in the city of Milazzo, refers to white and red wines from Sicilian varieties. Mamertino di Milazzo’s unparalleled elegance is due to the specific climate, soil, and winemaking techniques of the region. These elements help create a style of wine found nowhere else in Italy, or the world for that matter. 

We hope you will try the memorable wines that make Mamertino di Milazzo a favourite for wine drinkers worldwide. Browse our site to discover what Wineries in Mamertino di Milazzo have to offer and book your next holiday today. Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Mamertino di Milazzo.

Where is the Mamertino di Milazzo Wine Region?

Mamertino di Milazzo is a wine region in the northeast of Sicily, approximately straight east of Messina and the famed Messina Strait, which separates the island of Sicily from the heel of Italy's boot.

Unique terroir of Mamertino di Milazzo wine appellation

DOC Mamertino di Milazzo, or Mamertino, occupies most of the province of Messina. The zone begins on the coasts, the Tyrrhenian and Ionian, but the main vineyards are concentrated on the western shore of the Capo di Milazzo Peninsula, which overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea's Aeolian Islands.  Soils, in general, are alluvial, clay.

The vineyards of the DOC are located in the 31 communes around Milazzo, all of which are in the province of Messina. 

The traditional Mediterranean climate of Sicily provides adequate sunny hours and consistent mild rainfall to vineyards across the country. Consistent coastal breezes keep canopies dry, well-ventilated, and free of mildew infections. 

This location, shielded from the Sirocco winds, is drier and hotter than Faro, creating the ideal environment for the region's red and white grape wines.

History of Mamertino di Milazzo wine region

The territory of Mamartino is bounded on the one side by the Tyrrhenian Sea, on the other side by the picturesque Nebrodi Mountains. The Mamertino was called after the Mamertini, an early population of what is now the province of Messina. The Mamertini came to Sicily from Campania around 310 BC and found the viticultural possibilities of north-eastern Sicily at some time in their history.

For two millenia, Mamertino di Milazzo wine region has a history of producing some exceptional wines. Historical records even suggest that the very first farmers to cultivate grapes were mercenaries, some 300 years prior to Jesus' birth. After the defeat, they decided to stay in the heavenly Milazzo Peninsula and grew to be farmers. Julius Caesar was a great admirer of the local wines and often gifted it during celebrations and winning battles. Famous Roman authors like Martial and Pliny have praised in their works unique wines produced by the region. This is a testament to the area's excellent wine production. 

The DOC Mamertino di Milazzo was officially recognized in September 2004, demonstrating its modernity.

What is Mamertino di Milazzo Wine?

Modern Mamertino wine comes in a variety of styles rather than a single defining one. There are the basic red and white wines, each having a barrel-aged Riserva form and a varietal form: both are available in varied sweetness levels ranging from dry to sweet.

The wine zone Mamertino’s white and red wines come from local varieties. White - Bianco wines necessarily include Catarratto varieties (from 45%), as well as Grillo and Ansonica with a minimum share of one to 10% and a total share of both at least 35%. It is also possible to produce white wine from a pair of Grillo and Ansonica. Such wine is marked on the label as Grillo-Ansonica, Grillo-Inzolia, Ansonica-Grillo, Inzolia-Grillo.

Red or Rosso is based on the Nero d'Avola variety (from 60%) and necessarily includes Nocera 3 (from 10%). Nero d'Avola also serves for the production of varietal wine (the proportion of the variety is from 85%); on the label it is marked as Calabrese or Nero d'Avola.

Red wine of Mamertino is a transparent dark cherry colour. Deep and rich, at the same time refined focused bouquet shimmers with tones of ripe dark cherry and plum, bay leaf and pine resin, Mediterranean vegetation and light spices. The rich, but not heavy taste is supported by a solid, even if still young, tanninic structure and mild acidity. 

Food to Pair with Mamertino di Milazzo wine

Steak-frites

Steak-frites, literally “steak with fries,” is a meal that originated in French and Belgian national cuisine. Fries in this classic range from hand-cut rustic potato wedges to thin, factory-produced varieties. They are usually deep-fried, which gives them a crunchy texture and a nice golden hue. 

Although potatoes are required, the major attraction of the meal is the steak. The rib eye steak is the most frequently used cut in the meal, but sirloin steak and the famed T-bone can also be seen on restaurant menus. A basic sauce reduction, Béarnaise, or Hollandaise sauce is frequently served with the meal. 

Pizza capricciosa

Capricciosa pizza is made with a diverse array of toppings, most notably tomatoes, mozzarella, mushrooms, artichokes, ham, olives, and a sliced hard-boiled egg, sausages, although capers, and even anchovies are popular in central and northern Italy. Capricciosa, a famous pizza variety in Italy in the 1980s, is still selling well and regaining popularity.

Barbecue Ribs

Originally an American creation, juicy and smokey barbecue ribs have become one of the world's most famous foods. The meal is commonly made using pig ribs, either spareribs or soft, leaner baby back ribs. Pork is the logical option for the recipe since it is juicier on the bone, allowing the flesh to fall straight off the bone after grilling. 

It is one of the grilled recipes that rely on American-style grilling, in which the meat is cooked long, slow, and low. The ribs are routinely prepared before grilling to give them their particular flavour and texture. The two most frequent methods are marinating and dry-rubbing.

Marinating is typically done with soy or Worchester sauce, various spices, ketchup, and, on rare occasions, whiskey or honey. Dry-rub is typically created using powdered spices such as smoky paprika, garlic, Mediterranean or Oriental spices, sugar, and mustard, as the name implies.

Places to visit in Mamertino di Milazzo wine region

Messina - Coastal Town With Rich History and Incredible Medieval Museums

The architectural dominant of Messina and its main attraction is the Norman—style Cathedral, perhaps the most beautiful on the island. Built in 1150, it survived a lot of troubles — a fire in the 13th century, earthquakes in the 18th and 20th centuries, and finally a bomb hit during World War II, but it retained its greatness. On the adjacent campanile bell tower, you can see the world's largest astronomical clock: at noon, a whole procession of figures comes out, including a roaring lion and a singing rooster. 

On a hot Sicilian afternoon, you can relax on the benches near the fountains of Orion and Neptune. The Orion Fountain is dedicated to the mythical founder of Messina, and its author is Montorsoli himself, a disciple of Michelangelo. The fountain of Neptune also came out from under the chisel of this master, it is the largest in the city and somewhat resembles a Trevi. And opposite stands a gilded statue of the Madonna of the Port. The regional museum presents paintings by local medieval masters and two masterpieces by Caravaggio.

Milazzo, A Stunning Ancient Town in Sicily

Milazzo is the major departure point for visitors to the Aeolian Islands, but it was also the location of a significant Roman naval victory over the Carthaginians during the First Punic War in 260 BC. 

The ancient town centre is lovely and has several great buildings and churches; while the coast is also well worth seeing, notably the magnificent Norman castle, the cavernous rock chapel of Sant'Antonio di Padua, and the Riviera di Ponente beaches. There are numerous wonderful walking trails and great vistas and sunsets. Milazzo's strategic location at the base of a 5 km-long promontory jutting out into the Tyrrhenian Sea has given it a significant role since it was established by Messina settlers over 2,500 years ago.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mamertino di Milazzo wine region

What is Mamertino red wine?

Red blends of Mamertino wine are made from Nero D’Avola and Nocera, an ancient and widely unknown grapes. 

What is Mamertino white wine?

The flagship of Mamertino di Milazzo white wines is Cataratto, Inzolia, and Grillo blends.

What kind of wine is Mamertino?

Mamertino di Milazzo or simply Mamertino wines can be both red and white, made from local grape varieties. Like Nero D’Avola, Nocera for reds and Cataratto, Inzolia, and Grillo grapes for white wines.

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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 Mamertino di Milazzo