Biondi Winery

The Biondi Winery, established in the late 19th century, has roots that trace back to the 1600s when the Biondi family first acquired their vineyards. The winery flourished between the two World Wars, thanks to the efforts of Salvatore Biondi, Ciro’s great uncle, and the winemaking expertise of Ciro’s grandfather, Cirino. In the early 1900s, they participated in various wine fairs alongside their partner, Lanzafame, earning numerous accolades for their wines, which were branded as 'Biondi - Lanzafame'. Notable awards include those from Casalmonferato (1913), Paris (1914), Lyons (1914), Cuneo (1914), and Milan (1914), and they were honored in the ‘Grande Libro d’oro’ by Royal Appointment to King Vittorio Emmanuele III. However, the winery faced challenges after World War II, including the untimely passing of Salvatore and difficulties adapting to modern technology.

In 1999, Ciro and his wife Stephanie revitalized the family legacy by restoring the 6 hectares of vineyards. Their efforts led to the creation of Outis, a brand that highlights the exceptional quality of wines produced from the volcanic terroir and indigenous grape varieties.

The three terraced vineyards, located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Etna in Trecastagni, are planted with traditional Albarello vines. Vigna Chianta, situated at an altitude of 600 to 700 meters above sea level on a crater from 125 BC, features old Nerello vines alongside white grape varieties like Carricante, Catarrato, and Minella. Vigna Cisterna Fuori, on the same crater but with a different orientation, primarily produces Nerello Mascalese and Cappuccio. Lastly, Vigna San Nicolò, located on a 12,000-year-old crater, is dedicated exclusively to Nerello.

The unique microclimate of the Etna foothills, combined with the diverse sandy volcanic soils rich in minerals and significant temperature variations, contributes to the distinctive characteristics of Biondi wines.