Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Montecarrubo located?
Montecarrubo is located in Melilli, near Syracuse, in south-eastern Sicily. The estate overlooks the Ionian Sea and lies on the remains of an ancient extinct submarine volcano.
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Is Montecarrubo an organic winery?
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Yes. Montecarrubo is a certified organic wine estate. The vineyards are farmed with a strong focus on biodiversity and according to agroecological principles.
Who founded Montecarrubo?
Montecarrubo was founded in 2005 by winemaker and winegrower Peter Vinding-Diers and his wife Susan. Peter brought more than fifty years of international winemaking experience to the estate after working across South Africa, Bordeaux, Tokaj, Spain and South America.
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What wines is Montecarrubo best known for?
Montecarrubo is particularly known for its Syrah wines, including Vigna Grande and Vignolo, two single-vineyard expressions planted in 2010 from massal selections originating from Hermitage in the Rhône Valley.
What makes Vigna Grande and Vignolo different?
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Although both vineyards are planted with the same Syrah selection, their soils are distinctly different. Vigna Grande lies on volcanic soil over fragmented basalt, while Vignolo combines volcanic material, marine fossils and sand, giving each vineyard its own identity.
What is distinctive about Montecarrubo’s terroir?
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The estate sits on the remains of an ancient submarine volcano. Volcanic rock, calcareous layers, fossilised marine sediments and ancient coral formations create a complex geological mosaic that contributes freshness, salinity, structure and mineral tension to the wines.
Does Montecarrubo produce white wines?
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Yes. Alongside its red wines, Montecarrubo produces white wines from varieties including Grillo, with a focus on freshness, precision and the expression of their Sicilian origin.
How are Montecarrubo wines made?
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The wines are made from organically farmed grapes and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Cellar work is deliberately restrained, with the aim of preserving the character of each vineyard, grape variety and vintage
Can I visit Montecarrubo for a wine tasting?
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Yes. Private wine tastings are available at the estate by appointment. Visits offer the opportunity to discover the wines and experience Montecarrubo in the landscape where they are made.
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How can I book a wine tasting?
You can contact us through the website to enquire about availability and arrange a visit to the estate in Melilli, near Syracuse.
Can I contact Montecarrubo about wine availability or distribution?
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Yes. For wine availability, trade enquiries, distribution or further information, please contact the Montecarrubo team through our Contact page.
Do you sell and ship Montecarrubo wines?
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Yes. Although we do not currently have an e-commerce shop, wines can be purchased directly from the estate and shipped subject to availability and destination. Please contact us for current wines, pricing and delivery information