Experience the Flavors of Sicily: Wine Tasting in the Cellar
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Sicily’s wine culture, a wine tasting in the cellar at Cantina Novello offers a genuine, rewarding journey. Located in Avola, the heart of Nero d’Avola territory, this experience provides a chance to explore Sicily’s viticultural artistry in an intimate setting. For about a half-day outing—check availability for specific starting times—you’ll sample three carefully selected wines, each paired with local specialties, and learn about the land that produces these exceptional products.
Two things we particularly love about this tour are the focus on products from their own vineyards and the exclusive Nero d’Avola from Avola—a true local treasure. The fact that they own around five hectares of vineyards ensures quality control and a personal touch that you can’t get from larger, more commercial operations. Conversely, one possible consideration is that this experience is quite short—just a few hours—so if you’re after a full day of wine tasting or a broader tour of the region, you might want to combine it with other activities.
This tour suits travelers who want a focused, authentic experience with wine lovers eager to understand what makes Sicilian wines, especially Nero d’Avola, so special. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed, educational outing that emphasizes quality and terroir over commercial quantity.
Key Points
- Authentic Sicilian experience in Avola, the home of Nero d’Avola.
- Small vineyard operation with about 5 hectares, ensuring personal attention and quality control.
- Includes tasting of three wines paired with local products, offering a well-rounded sensory experience.
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Wheelchair accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
- Price does not include bottle purchases, so you can choose to buy or simply enjoy the tasting.
An In-Depth Look at the Cellar Tasting Tour
Location and Accessibility
Starting at the Novello Winery Sales Point, this tour is conveniently located in Avola, a town famous for its Nero d’Avola grapes. The winery’s setting is typically intimate, making it perfect for those who prefer a personal touch over large-scale tours. The winery is accessible to wheelchairs, which is a thoughtful feature that broadens the appeal to travelers with mobility concerns.
The Core Experience
The main event involves tasting three different wines—each carefully selected by the winemakers to showcase the terroir and craftsmanship of the region. You’ll be tasting products from their own vineyards, emphasizing the importance of local grapes and traditional methods. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about understanding the story behind each glass.
Pairings with local products enrich the tasting, allowing you to experience the flavor harmony between wine and regional delicacies—think cheeses, cured meats, or local bread, though specific pairings are not detailed. These pairings help to highlight the wine’s character and give a real taste of Sicilian culinary tradition. We loved the way the guide explained how each element complements the other, making the tasting both educational and delicious.
The Nero d’Avola Highlight
The Nero d’Avola from Avola is a standout feature of this tour. The winery claims it’s the only Nero d’Avola from this particular area, which makes it a rare and valuable experience for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore authentic local varieties. This specific grape is the main character in Avola’s wine scene, and tasting it here gives you insights into what makes Sicilian Nero d’Avola unique—its boldness, fruitiness, and balance.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Winery’s Philosophy
The guiding principle of “STORIES OF LIFE AND VINES” shines through in every aspect of the tour. The owners aim to make their wines known for excellence produced by their territory. They select only the best grapes, ensuring that their final products are of high quality, which is reflected in the reviews highlighting the fundamental quality of their wines.
Duration and Group Size
This is a 1-day activity, but it’s quite compact—you’ll begin and end at the same point, making it easy to incorporate into a broader itinerary. The small-group or individual nature of the tasting enhances the experience, allowing for personalized questions and interaction with the guide.
Price and Value
While the tasting includes three wines and local pairings, the cost does not include bottle purchases—so if you find a favorite, you can decide whether to take a bottle home. Given the focus on quality and the chance to taste a rare Nero d’Avola, many travelers find this to be excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and the chance to learn directly from the winemakers.
Booking Flexibility
Thanks to the “reserve & pay later” option, you can secure your spot without upfront commitment—ideal if your plans might change. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead, it’s a low-risk way to enjoy a unique Sicilian culinary experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts who want to understand the nuances of Sicilian wines, especially Nero d’Avola, in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, small-scale experience rather than a large commercial tasting. If you’re interested in learning how the land and climate influence the wine, and enjoy regional pairings, this tour will satisfy. It’s also a good choice for those with mobility needs, since the winery is wheelchair accessible.
Final Words
Travelers who visit Sicily often find that wine tasting isn’t just about drinking—it’s about connecting with a place through its land and traditions. This cellar experience at Cantina Novello offers exactly that: a chance to taste the fruits of Sicilian soil, understand the passion behind the wines, and embrace local culture in a personal setting.
While the tour is brief, the quality and authenticity make it well worth your time. If you’re after a meaningful encounter with Sicily’s wine heritage—and you love the idea of trying a rare Nero d’Avola—this experience provides a genuine taste of the island’s best.
FAQ
What is included in the wine tasting experience?
You’ll taste three different wines, each paired with local products. The focus is on showcasing products from the winery’s own vineyards and highlighting the unique qualities of Sicilian wine.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately one day, with the tasting experience itself being manageable within a few hours. Check specific start times when booking.
Is the winery accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the winery is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs.
Can I buy bottles during the visit?
Yes, bottles are available for purchase, but their cost is not included in the tasting fee.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a winery visit is recommended. Since it’s a cellar tasting, bring a small bag or purse for any purchases, and consider a bottle opener if you plan to buy a wine to take home.
Is this experience suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since the activity involves wine tasting, it’s primarily geared toward adults of legal drinking age. Non-drinkers might enjoy the local products paired with the wines, but this is mainly a wine-focused experience.
In essence, this wine tasting tour in Avola offers a well-balanced blend of authenticity, education, and enjoyment. Perfect for those eager to understand Sicily’s wine identity—one glass at a time.
You can check availability for your dates here: