Arianna Occhipinti

Arianna Occhipinti is based in Vittoria, in south-eastern Sicily, within the Cerasuolo di Vittoria region, where the vines interact with the Iblean hills and the nearby sea. Its identity stems from a focus on the region’s historic grape varieties, particularly Frappato di Vittoria and Nero d’Avola, which are regarded as a means of expressing the character of the soils and specific vineyard sites rather than simply as grape varieties. The soils, characterised by red sands, limestone components and tuff or rocky substrates, favour wines in which fruit, acidity and refined tannins remain in balance.

The agricultural approach is organic, with a focus on biodiversity and no use of chemicals in the vineyard; in the winery, spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts predominates, alongside carefully controlled maceration and ageing processes that favour concrete or large wooden casks, so as to complement the wine without overpowering it. Research into the individual vineyard plots of Vittoria and their soil differences plays a central role: sand and limestone are seen as elements capable of imparting softness, aromatic brightness, freshness and vibrancy.

The wines are Mediterranean in style yet refined, offering a clear expression of the terroir: the Frappato tends to express elegance, vigour and floral notes, whilst the Nero d’Avola retains its sunny character, depth and freshness. Overall, Arianna Occhipinti embodies a contemporary, agricultural south-eastern Sicily that is deeply rooted in its local heritage.