The Wines of the Jato Valley: A Journey into the Heart of Sicily
In the heart of Sicily, nestled among the hills surrounding the Jato River, lies a winery that embodies the most authentic essence of the island’s winemaking tradition. Located in Contrada Feotto, within the municipality of San Giuseppe Jato, this family-run agricultural company draws deeply from Sicily’s culture and history. It offers the world wines that not only reflect the quality of the terroir but also convey the passion and dedication of those who work the land every day.
A Unique Terroir
The company’s vineyards are primarily located in the countryside of Noto, in the province of Syracuse, within an evocatively named area called Buonivini (“Good Wines”). This location marries history and nature, as evidenced by the ancient ruins of the Villa del Tellaro, dating back to the 4th century CE, where a mosaic depicting a young man serving red wine was discovered. This historic link to viticulture makes Buonivini one of Sicily’s most storied wine-producing areas.
The vineyards, situated about 5 kilometers from the sea, thrive in an unspoiled environment, free from pollution. Positioned at an altitude of 40 to 70 meters above sea level, the clay-sandy soils, slightly alkaline and rich in limestone, are ideal for cultivating high-quality grapes. The warm, dry climate typical of the region ensures optimal grape ripening, contributing to wines with distinctive and authentic character.
Wines: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The company is renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, cultivating both native and international grape varieties. With a high vine density of approximately 8,000 plants per hectare, the production focuses on three main varieties: Nero d’Avola (70%), Syrah (20%), and Petit Verdot (10%). These are cultivated using advanced training systems, including cordon spur and guyot. The average yield of 70 quintals per hectare ensures the selection of the finest grapes, resulting in wines with exceptional structure and complexity.
In addition to vines, the company also grows olives for oil and wheat, maintaining harmony with the surrounding environment. The winery, located at an altitude of about 400 meters, is equipped with state-of-the-art winemaking technology, including steel, cement, and wooden aging tanks. The wooden tanks are housed in an underground cellar to maintain an ideal, consistent temperature for wine maturation.
A Story of Culture and Hospitality
Beyond the exceptional quality of its wines, the company embodies the Sicilian tradition of hospitality. Its mission extends beyond producing excellent wines to sharing a piece of Sicily’s history and traditions. Connecting with other cultures through wine is one of the primary motivations driving the company’s global exports. Each bottle tells a story of passion, a deep connection to the land, and respect for millennia-old traditions.
The Area’s History: A Link to Antiquity
The San Giuseppe Jato area is rich in history and cultural heritage, with evidence of human presence dating back over five thousand years. The settlement of Monte Jato, established in the 9th century BCE, offers a glimpse into the area’s vibrant past, inhabited continuously until the 13th century. Among the remains at Monte Jato is a 4,400-seat theater, the third largest in Sicily, a testament to the grandeur of a civilization that left an indelible mark on the island’s history.
The Future of Wine in the Jato Valley
With an ever-increasing focus on sustainability and quality, the Jato Valley Agricultural Company looks to the future with ambition. It continues to invest in enhancing its vineyards and refining its production processes. The goal is to bring its wines to tables worldwide, celebrating not only the quality of its products but also the cultural richness of Sicily—a land that has cultivated vines since antiquity.
In this corner of Sicily, between mountains and sea, wine is more than just a drink—it’s a way to tell the story of a land deeply rooted in nature and tradition. The wines of the Jato Valley embody this profound connection and the passion passed down with every bottle, ready to win over the world.
This editorial was created as part of the “Buy Sicily” project funded by the Regional Agriculture Department under Measure 3.2 of the PRS.
