Vinupetra Etna Rosso 2023 I Vigneri di Salvo Foti

Vinupetra 2023 Etna DOC: the volcanic red from I Vigneri

Story and identity of Vinupetra 2023

Vinupetra 2023 is an iconic wine from I Vigneri by Salvo Foti. Born on the lava slopes of Mount Etna, it embodies the heritage of heroic viticulture and ancient bush-trained vines tended by generations of vigneri. Here, the mountain, the hands and the moon guide the life of the vineyard.

Vineyard philosophy

The vineyards are cultivated by hand with no chemicals, respecting nature’s balance. Grapes come from Nerello Mascalese (80%) and Nerello Cappuccio, Alicante, Francisi (20%), native varieties that bring structure and complexity. Tradition, sustainability and manual care shape every vintage.

Winemaking approach

Vinification is minimal intervention: 30% whole cluster, spontaneous fermentation in steel tanks with indigenous yeasts, 15-day skin maceration. Racking follows the lunar calendar. Aging for at least 12 months in large oak barrels preserves finesse and character.

Deep ruby red, aromas of red berries, volcanic herbs and Mediterranean spices. On the palate, mineral, enveloping, with silky tannins and a long finish.

Vinupetra 2023 Technical sheet

• Appellation: Etna DOC

• Grapes: 80% Nerello Mascalese, 20% Nerello Cappuccio, Alicante, Francisi

• Alcohol: 15%

• Bottle size: 75 cl

• Vinification: spontaneous fermentation in steel, 30% whole cluster, 15-day maceration

• Aging: minimum 12 months in large oak barrels

• Philosophy: indigenous yeasts, artisanal, independent winemakers

• Notes: contains sulphites

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I Vigneri di Salvo Foti: history of heroic viticulture on Etna

I Vigneri di Salvo Foti was founded in 2001 thanks to the thirty years of experience of Salvo Foti, a Sicilian enologist and agronomist, who aimed to bring authenticity and sustainability back to Etna’s viticulture. Located in Milo, in the heart of the Etna area, the winery has become a benchmark for those seeking wines that express the true essence of the volcano, enhancing local traditions and respect for the environment.

Philosophy and vineyard practices at I Vigneri

The winery’s philosophy is based on sustainable and nature-respecting viticulture. The vineyards are cultivated using the traditional Alberello method, declared UNESCO heritage, which involves low-trained vines manually worked to preserve biodiversity and reduce environmental impact. The use of natural materials such as chestnut poles, natural fiber ropes, and local sheep manure completes a virtuous agricultural system where solar energy and manual labor are central, avoiding heavy machinery and plastics.

Winemaking approach: tradition and innovation

The cellar is located in an ancient 1840 lava stone palmento in Milo, where winemaking takes advantage of gravity to reduce energy use. Here the wines ferment spontaneously with indigenous yeasts and age in neutral containers such as used wood, concrete, and stainless steel to keep the unique character of the Etna terroir intact. This artisanal approach ensures natural wines that are a pure expression of the territory and the vintage.

Key wines from I Vigneri di Salvo Foti

Among the winery’s most appreciated wines are Nerello Mascalese, an elegant and mineral red; Carricante, a white with great freshness and complexity; and Minnella, a rare native variety that produces aromatic and vibrant wines. Each bottle results from meticulous work in vineyard and cellar, reflecting the strength and vitality of Mount Etna.