Hafen
Taormina

Explore the winemaking traditions and flavours of Sicily during this unforgettable, full-day S.A.L.T. experience led by distinguished journalist, wine judge and professional winemaker Benjamin Spencer.

Benjamin Spencer

Your journey into the winemaking traditions and flavours of this stunningly beautiful region of Sicily is guided by Benjamin Spencer, director of the Etna Wine School and author of The New Wines of Mount Etna, awarded "Best European Wine Book 2021". In addition to holding a diploma from the London-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Benjamin is a journalist, wine judge, and seasoned professional winemaker with two decades of experience working with artisan and internationally-traded wine brands in California and Italy.

If at the winery on the day of your experience, either Antonio or Salvino Benanti will be joining Benjaming in sharing information about their family and winery.

Giardini Naxos, Taormina, Milo, Mt. Etna

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the village of Milo. En route, pass through the town of Naxos, founded by Greek colonisers in the 8th-century B.C. Milo Village is located on the eastern slopes of the spectacular Mt. Etna. Here, the surrounding areas are home to many vineyards and woods, thanks to the fertile soil rich in mineralised water.

Winemaking Traditions

Wine has been produced in Sicily for millenia, and there is evidence that Mycenaean traders cultivated grapes in the Aeolian Islands as early at 1500 B.C. When the Greeks began to settle in Sicily in the 8th century B.C., they introduced several varieties of vines. Although fine wines are typically associated with western Sicily or the areas near Mount Etna, many new wineries have emerged across the island. A slew of the island's traditional wines and spirits are now globally-renowned, and several boast denomination of origin (appellation). Sicily has its own table and dessert wines, and many regional liqueurs. The magic is in Sicily's fertile soil and long, cloudless summers, with humidity but virtually no rain from June until harvesting in late-August. These factors ensure Sicilian vintages remain remarkably consistent from year-to-year.

Benanti Milo Vineyards, Guided Tour & Wine Tasting

Upon arrival in Milo, your S.A.L.T. Program begins by joining Benjamin for a guided walk of the vineyards Benanti Winery. Visit the vineyard and learn about its provenance, then proceed for a wine tasting of 'Superior of Milo', a white wine typical of this area thanks to the Carricante cultivation, and the only territory in which Etna Bianco can boast the title of 'Superior'.

Viagrande, Benanti Montserra Estate, Vineyard & Oak Barrel Room, Lunch, Vintage Wine Tastings

Next, re-board your coach and head to the world-renowned Benanti Montserra Estate in Viagrande, situated on a hill on the slopes of Mount Etna. Viagrande became famous due to its mention in Nedda, the first novel by Sicilian writer Giovanni Verga, and is renowned for its vineyards and gastronomic traditions. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the vineyard and historic oak barrel room. Following your tour, proceed for a Sicilian lunch and tasting of several of their finest vintages, a delightful experience that leaves you with a greater understanding and appreciation of Sicilian flavours. After lunch, some free time is made available to explore the winery and purchase some Benanti wines at your leisure. At the conclusion of your S.A.L.T. experience, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Benanti Winery

Benanti Wines was founded in 1988, thanks to the commitment and passion of the Cavaliere del Lavoro, Giuseppe Benanti. He purchased vineyards highly-suited to quality wine production on different sides of Mt. Etna, resuming the activity already undertaken by his grandfather, Giuseppe, 40 years earlier. The vineyards are all already planted with Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Carricante; vines typical of the volcano. Cavaliere Benanti decided to focus immediately on these varieties, and, over time, emerged as one of the main wine ambassadors in Italy and around the world.

In recent years, Caveliere Benanti's sons, Antonio and Salvino, have joined the Cavalier Benanti. The production amounts to about 200,000 bottles and all the work, from the vineyard to the cellar, is devoted to the utmost respect for the vine and its unique characteristics. Benanti wines are exported to important markets such as the United States, Canada, Scandinavia, England, France, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, China, and Singapore. They have consistently won coveted prizes both in these countries, and, of course, Italy. Their many prestigious awards include 'Italian Winery of the Year' (Gambero Rosso, 2007) and 'Top 100 Winery in the USA' (Wine & Spirits Magazine, 2012) as well as 11 'Tre Bicchieri' Gambero Rosso awards, making Benanti the most awarded winery in Etna.

Spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain, Taormina is one of Sicily's most popular destinations. The town remains an amazingly beautiful spot with gorgeous medieval churches, a stunning Greek theatre and sweeping views over the Gulf of Naxos and Mt Etna.

Begin with the drive from the pier at Giardini Naxos to Taormina. Leaving the bus at the parking lot, commence your exploration on foot. Major highlights include a look at the beautiful façade of the 15th-century Palazzo Corvaia located at Taormina's northern centre, a brief visit to the Cathedral and the exterior of the Odeon, a small Roman theatre.

Greek Theatre

Following an uphill walk, reach the site of this stunning theatre. With a diameter of 358 feet (107 metres), it is the second-largest theatre in Sicily, after Syracuse. Reconstructed in the 2nd-century, the theatre is in excellent condition and has marvellous acoustics that are still appreciated at contemporary performances of classical plays. From the upper tiers, there are spectacular views including majestic Mount Etna. See the exterior of the Odeon, a smaller version of the Greek Theatre.

Corso Umberto

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Corso Umberto, and the narrow alleys adjacent to it. Wander down lanes bordered with bright flowers and browse for local handicraft items, such as ornate embroidery, intricate lace and colourful Sicilian pottery.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-join the group for the drive back to Giardini Naxos, where the ship's tender awaits.

Experience the spectacular beauty and magnitude of Europe's most active volcano during this memorable journey to Mount Etna. Sicily's greatest natural attraction is also its highest mountain, rising 10,910 feet (3,326 metres) above sea level. To the ancient Greeks, Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, the god of fire and the home of the one-eyed monster known as the Cyclop. The famous landmark is reached via a scenic drive along the coast and up the slopes, which are covered with solidified lava.

Mt. Etna

Depart the pier at Giardini Naxos and travel through the delightful countryside of vineyards and orchards. Then, the road winds up the mountains' slopes, passing through vast fields of lava to the extinct Silvestri Craters, located at an elevation of 5,700 feet (1,737 metres) above sea level. Here, explore the site, walking across hardened lava rock and along the edge of the craters whilst imagining how they appeared thousands of years ago when they were filled with hot lava. Caution is advised; watch out for crevices and slippery ground. More than 100 eruptions have been recorded since the 4th century BC, the most recent (at time of this printing) in April 2020.

Leaving Silvestri Crater, drive back down through the expanse of lava fields and head toward the pier and the ship at Giardini Naxos.

Explore the winemaking traditions and flavours of Sicily during this unforgettable, full-day S.A.L.T. experience led by distinguished journalist, wine judge and professional winemaker Benjamin Spencer.

Benjamin Spencer

Your journey into the winemaking traditions and flavours of this stunningly beautiful region of Sicily is guided by Benjamin Spencer, director of the Etna Wine School and author of The New Wines of Mount Etna, awarded "Best European Wine Book 2021". In addition to holding a diploma from the London-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Benjamin is a journalist, wine judge, and seasoned professional winemaker with two decades of experience working with artisan and internationally-traded wine brands in California and Italy.

If at the winery on the day of your experience, either Antonio or Salvino Benanti will be joining Benjaming in sharing information about their family and winery.

Giardini Naxos, Taormina, Milo, Mt. Etna

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the village of Milo. En route, pass through the town of Naxos, founded by Greek colonisers in the 8th-century B.C. Milo Village is located on the eastern slopes of the spectacular Mt. Etna. Here, the surrounding areas are home to many vineyards and woods, thanks to the fertile soil rich in mineralised water.

Winemaking Traditions

Wine has been produced in Sicily for millenia, and there is evidence that Mycenaean traders cultivated grapes in the Aeolian Islands as early at 1500 B.C. When the Greeks began to settle in Sicily in the 8th century B.C., they introduced several varieties of vines. Although fine wines are typically associated with western Sicily or the areas near Mount Etna, many new wineries have emerged across the island. A slew of the island's traditional wines and spirits are now globally-renowned, and several boast denomination of origin (appellation). Sicily has its own table and dessert wines, and many regional liqueurs. The magic is in Sicily's fertile soil and long, cloudless summers, with humidity but virtually no rain from June until harvesting in late-August. These factors ensure Sicilian vintages remain remarkably consistent from year-to-year.

Benanti Milo Vineyards, Guided Tour & Wine Tasting

Upon arrival in Milo, your S.A.L.T. Program begins by joining Benjamin for a guided walk of the vineyards Benanti Winery. Visit the vineyard and learn about its provenance, then proceed for a wine tasting of 'Superior of Milo', a white wine typical of this area thanks to the Carricante cultivation, and the only territory in which Etna Bianco can boast the title of 'Superior'.

Viagrande, Benanti Montserra Estate, Vineyard & Oak Barrel Room, Lunch, Vintage Wine Tastings

Next, re-board your coach and head to the world-renowned Benanti Montserra Estate in Viagrande, situated on a hill on the slopes of Mount Etna. Viagrande became famous due to its mention in Nedda, the first novel by Sicilian writer Giovanni Verga, and is renowned for its vineyards and gastronomic traditions. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the vineyard and historic oak barrel room. Following your tour, proceed for a Sicilian lunch and tasting of several of their finest vintages, a delightful experience that leaves you with a greater understanding and appreciation of Sicilian flavours. After lunch, some free time is made available to explore the winery and purchase some Benanti wines at your leisure. At the conclusion of your S.A.L.T. experience, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Benanti Winery

Benanti Wines was founded in 1988, thanks to the commitment and passion of the Cavaliere del Lavoro, Giuseppe Benanti. He purchased vineyards highly-suited to quality wine production on different sides of Mt. Etna, resuming the activity already undertaken by his grandfather, Giuseppe, 40 years earlier. The vineyards are all already planted with Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Carricante; vines typical of the volcano. Cavaliere Benanti decided to focus immediately on these varieties, and, over time, emerged as one of the main wine ambassadors in Italy and around the world.

In recent years, Caveliere Benanti's sons, Antonio and Salvino, have joined the Cavalier Benanti. The production amounts to about 200,000 bottles and all the work, from the vineyard to the cellar, is devoted to the utmost respect for the vine and its unique characteristics. Benanti wines are exported to important markets such as the United States, Canada, Scandinavia, England, France, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, China, and Singapore. They have consistently won coveted prizes both in these countries, and, of course, Italy. Their many prestigious awards include 'Italian Winery of the Year' (Gambero Rosso, 2007) and 'Top 100 Winery in the USA' (Wine & Spirits Magazine, 2012) as well as 11 'Tre Bicchieri' Gambero Rosso awards, making Benanti the most awarded winery in Etna.

From the market to the table, this tour will take you into the 'Kitchen of the Sun' where you will experience an authentic look at Sicilian cooking. Led by Chef Monica Consoli, (daughter of the famous gastronomic journalist Eleonora Consoli) this small-group cooking class is a gastronomic delight where you will enjoy the fruits of your labour with a beautiful lunch served al fresco.

After tendering ashore, depart the pier with your guide for the scenic drive to Catania.

Catania

Upon arrival, walk to Porta Uzeda area, just near the Cathedral, where there is one of the most ancient and typical markets in the area. There, with the assistance of an expert, you could see and discover the food (like vegetables, fruits and fish) typical of the Mediterranean cuisine, and you will enjoy the colours of the Sicilian folklore.

Viagrande

After the visit re-board your coach and drive to Viagrande formerly known as 'Varanni'. Located on the slopes of Mount Etna, this small village is renowned for its vineyards and a year-round, mild climate that makes it a popular summer destination for Catania residents seeking a respite from the heat of the city.

Upon arrival in Viagrande, proceed to the typical 18-century Sicilian home of gastronomic journalist Eleonora Consoli, author of several books on Italian and Sicilian cooking, and the recipient of numerous awards. Many years ago she established the cooking school, in which now her daughter Monica is continuing the family tradition hosting guests. Join Monica in the kitchen of her typical, 18th-century Sicilian home for a lesson in Sicilian cooking that focuses on pasta, vegetables, meat and cakes. Your cooking lesson concludes with a lunch of the prepared dishes accompanied by wine, and served al fresco in the home's garden (weather permitting).

After lunch, re-board your coach for the 1-hour return drive to the pier and meet your tender where you will be taken back to the ship.

View Europe's largest active volcano, Mt. Etna, and experience the beauty and history that is Sicily with a visit to Linguaglossa and the Gambino Winery Estate. Enjoy a wine tasting after an introduction to the vineyards in this unique climate.

Depart the pier and start your excursion with a brief drive through the town of Naxos, founded by Greek colonizers in the 8th century, and then continue to the village of Linguaglossa.

Linguaglossa

Linguaglossa is a town in the Province of Catania and is located on the northern side of Mount Etna. It was founded on a lava stream in 1566 and its name 'Lingua Glossa' literally means 'Tongue Tongue', with 'Lingua' being the Italian word for 'Tongue', and 'Glossa' being the ancient Greek word for 'Tongue'.

Upon arrival, begin the short walking tour seeing the Mother Church, erected in 1613, and the Chiesa di S. Egidio, who is the town's patron saint. During your walk you will have the opportunity to taste one of the best pistachio gelatos made by a famous local patisserie.

Afterwards, re-board the coach and continue to Gambino Winery.

Gambino Winery, Wines & Light Meal

The Gambino Winery, owned by the Raciti Gambino family, is located in the northern foothills of Mt. Etna at approximately 800m (1/2 mile) above sea level on sunny and airy terracing that have breathtaking panoramas. With a unique climate and ground conditions determining the typicality of the Etna grapes and wine, this site is now extremely fertile due to the ancient volcanic eruptions.

After your arrival, visit first the vineyard and the wine-cellar and afterwards you will have the opportunity to taste the wines they are producing with a light meal.

Return to the Naxos pier and the ship on your coach, approximately 45 minutes away.

Explore Taormina at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Taormina at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Taormina at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car or van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Taormina at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore the splendid art, history, shopping and beauty of Taormina and Castelmola during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion. Both towns offer spectacular and panoramic views while Castelmola overlooks Taormina and Taormina sits in the shadow of Mt. Etna.

Castelmola

Depart the pier for the approximately 45-minute drive to the medieval village of Castelmola. En route, drive through the small town of Naxos. Situated atop a mountain approximately 1,804 feet (about 550 metres) above sea level, Castelmola offers spectacular panoramic views. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the village. Among the many panoramic sites to see is the famous Bar St. Giorgio. After your visit, re-board your coach and drive to Taormina.

Taormina & Greek Theatre

Perched on a terrace overlooking the sea, Taormina has a delightful medieval character and many interesting shops. Upon arrival, the walking tour begins with an exterior visit to the famous Palazzo Corvaia, a 15th-century palace featuring a splendid façade and classic double-windows. From here, proceed to the Greek Theatre. Built in the 3rd-century B.C., the theatre is renowned for its excellent acoustics, and still hosts open-air performances in the summer months.

Corso Umberto

Your tour concludes with a guided stroll along Corso Umberto. Located just off the broad pedestrian avenue, it is home to many lanes and 'viuzze' where you can browse for local handcrafts.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach for the brief return drive to the pier.