Here we are back on the small roads of the Sicilian countryside!
We follow century-old olive trees, through hilly landscapes and fields delimited by dry walls, when in the distance a rocky promontory surrounded by a pinewood and vineyards as far as the eye can see. The light at the end of the day is captivating.
The place is dominated with a huge stone building situated at the top, the Feudi del Pisciotto Wine Relais. We are precisely in the countryside of Niscemi, in the south-east of the island, close to the UNESCO listed Baroque towns of the Val di Noto. Not far away from the largest cork forest in Sicily, there is the Orientata Sugherata Nature Reserve.
It is a discreet Sicily, whose Marcellooo likes to reveal (some of) the secrets.
Feudi del Pisciotto Wine Relais is an estate of 150 hectares, 44 of which are vineyards.
Feudi (the "fiefs") today includes several buildings, some dating from the 17th century.
As its name suggests, the establishment produces excellent wines. One of the passions of the owners, the Panerai family.
A unique wine-growing culture because it is in the territory of Cerasuolo di Vittoria, the only DOCG (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) in Sicily.
Label used to qualify a wine of quality and renown, the strictest of the Italian appellations.
These red wines seduce for their rich character of cherry, red fruit, and pomegranate aromas.
The owners, sensitive to the Italian art of living, produce each year a Grandi Stilisti Collection (Great stylists) with labels designed by the most illustrious fashion houses of La Botte (Versace, Giambattista Valli, Missoni, Alberta Ferretti, Gianfranco Ferrè...).
To appreciate these wines, let's go to the restaurant. You pass through the old wine presses, vast and high rooms, interspersed with glass passages on the floor overlooking the cellars.
On the either side, the wide wooden doors open onto terraces facing the hills or gardens.
Chef Francesco Capuano's table was awarded 2 forks in the Gambero Rosso 2021 guide (equivalent to the Michelin Guide in France).
It is an inventive cuisine mixing the excellence of the territory, traditional recipes and contemporary touches. Without hesitation, opt for the tasting menu. A journey for the senses!
The journey continues, let's go and visit the rooms. The former stables and storage areas, with exposed stone walls and very high ceilings, is now a house of 10 rooms and suites (soon 15 for the next spring season).
The combination of modern furniture and local craftsmanship is successful. The attention paid to the lighting of the premises provides an intimate and warm atmosphere.
As is often the case, spaciousness is the true luxury of this estate. Perfect to celebrate a beautiful wedding. There are many places to contemplate the valley and the vineyards, terraces, gardens, the pine forest, and the sublime swimming pool. A wellness centre with sauna and hammam.
And the fabulous welcome from Veronica, the director, and all the staff.
Feudi del Pisciotto Wine Relais. A name that says a lot about the history of the island.
An ideal house to disconnect in the heart of a rural Sicily, unknown and unspoilt.
Salute*Cheers !
