Tasca d’Almerita – Whitaker Foundation

On the island of San Pantaleo in the Marsala Lagoon, the Conti Tasca d’Almerita are continuing the centuries-old history of viticulture in Sicily. The Whitaker Foundation initiated the project. In 2007, it commissioned the Tasca family to breathe new life into the historic Phoenician vineyards on the island. The seafaring Phoenicians colonised the land in the first half of the 8th century BC. They cultivated the first vines on the marine soils of the ancient city of Mozia.

Sun, salt and wind characterise the small cultivation area in the middle of the Mare Tirreno. To protect the Grillo vines from the harsh environment, the winemakers grow them as small trees using the traditional Alberello cultivation system. This method is ideal for the maritime microclimate of the area. The roots of the vines can spread far and find moisture in the soil. This reduces the yield, but makes the few grapes all the more flavourful. They also retain their typical citrussy, mineral notes thanks to the fresh breezes that blow in from the surrounding Lo Stagnone Lagoon.

The sea also plays an important role in the harvest. The precious fruit is harvested in the cool morning hours and transported to the mainland in small boats, just like in Phoenician times. Refrigerated trucks await them here to take them on to the Regaleali winery. This is just one of many stages on the way to an impressive white wine: Mozia.