The Best Sicilian Wine Pairings
When you think live volcano do you also think vineyard? Probably not. But in the Etna region on the Mediterranean island of Sicily, there are vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano.
So in the spirit of adding a new taste to your wine repertoire, we thought we'd enlighten you with a region you might not have considered. And since we're in prime fish grilling season, pair recipes with the wines of Mount Etna for you so you can add a continental twist to your lazy August dinner table.
Plus, these winemakers work hard to bring you their wines. In addition to worrying about all of the other elements, farmers there have to deal with lava and extreme inclines in order to make great wine.
So fire up the coals and use this post as your guide to pairing Mount Etna wines with grilled fish.
Recipe: A Great Basic Recipe for Grilled Fish
This recipe suggests using halibut, swordfish, or tuna, which are solid, steak-like and great for grilling. The recipe also suggests a wood fire or actual charcoal instead of gas, will give the fish a more authentic Mediterranean flavor.
BONACCORSI VALCERASA Etna Bianco 2009 (Etna, Italy) $22
Pale yellow, fresh, and floral, a refreshing pairing for grilled fish.
Recipe: Grilled Swordfish with Eggplant, Anchovy and Green Olives
Many of the ingredients in this recipe — olives, garlic and anchovy — scream Mediterranean flavor. A little olive oil and lemon, and you're in fish-grilling heaven.
TENUTA TERRE NERE Rosato 2012 (Etna, Italy) $20
A refreshing medium-bodied rosé with a hint of citrus, this is summer in a bottle..
Recipe: Grilled Halibut with Lima Bean and Roasted Tomato Sauce
Play the right Italian music and add some rustic flare to your table setting, and you might just think you're in Sicily enjoying this grilled fish and wine combination.
MURGO Etna Rosso 2010 (Etna, Italy) $12
This wine is medium bodied, with a hint of smoke, earth, and cherry, perfect for the roasted tomato flavor of this pairing.