In Italy there are still-active volcanic activities such as Etna, Campi Flegrei, Vesuvius, the Island of Vulcano in the Aeolian Islands, but there are also territories originating from past and no longer active volcanos. The soils of Etna, Vesuvius and much of Campania are volcanic. But the granite weathering of Sardinia is of volcanic origin too, as well as the porphyry around Bolzano and the basalt of the Soave hills. Many lakes in Lazio are also former volcanic craters.

What makes volcanic wines original? The vines in these places grow on poorly fertile soils, lacking organic substances, but rich in minerals of volcanic origin. For the vine these are optimal conditions to produce quality grapes. Hence the wines evoke “explosive” stories, aromas and flavors of the places where they were made. There are no specific grape varieties for "volcanic wines", but depending on the region both local and international vine varieties can be found; if Nerello mascalese and Carricante are the native varieties of Etna, Aglianico, Piedirosso, Greco, Fiano, Coda di Volpe and Falanghina are the most characteristic varieties of Campania; Durella and Garganega are grown on the Lessini Mountains, but beyond these we can find Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot noir to name a few. And on the volcanic island of Pantelleria, Moscato d'Alessandria, also known as Zibibbo, has always grown. Our suggestions may be Lessini Durello Sumante Brut Torre dei Vescovi by Colli Vicentini, Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone Poggio dei Gelsi 2020 by Falesco – Famiglia Cotarella, Etna Rosso Contrada Monte Gorna 2018 Cantine Nicosia, Falanghina dei Campi Flegrei 2018 by La Sibilla.

Volcanic wines have a peculiar taste… they have fire inside!