Insolia

TheInsolia — more commonly known as Inzolia — is a white grape variety native to the Sicily, among the oldest in the Mediterranean. It is famous for its sea freshness, the aromatic delicacy and a natural savouriness which recalls the coastal area it comes from.

Historically also used in the production of Marsala, today Insolia is the star of dry white wines, fragrant and Mediterranean, ideal for everyday drinking but also able to give more complex expressions.

Origin and spread

  • Region: Sicily (main)

  • Also grown in: Tuscany (especially in the Maremma area, such as Ansonica) and Sardinia

  • Main areas: Agrigento, Trapani, Palermo, the province of Syracuse, the south-western coast

Ampelographic characteristics

  • Bunch: medium, compact

  • Berry: medium, thick skin, golden yellow

  • Ripening: mid-late

  • Resistant to drought and hot climates

  • Susceptible to oxidation (requires care in the winery)

Sensory profile of the wine

Colour:

  • Straw yellow with golden highlights

Aromas:

  • Wild flowers, orange blossom, camomile

  • White fruit: Golden Delicious apple, white peach

  • Citrus: lemon, citron

  • Mediterranean notes: bitter almond, herbs (sage, rosemary)

  • In mature versions: acacia honey, dried fruit

Palate:

  • Dry, savoury, fresh, with medium body

  • The finish is often slightly bitter, very typical and enjoyable

  • In the best versions: briny minerality, elegant persistence

Main appellations that include Insolia

Appellation Region
Sicilia DOC Sicily
Menfi DOC Sicily (Agrigento)
Contea di Sclafani DOC Sicily
Ansonica Costa dell’Argentario DOC Tuscany (as Ansonica)

Food pairings

  • Grilled fish or fish baked in parchment, stuffed cuttlefish, roast octopus

  • Seafood, red prawns, fish carpaccio

  • Vegetable or fish couscous, Mediterranean salads

  • Fresh cheeses, ricotta, young pecorino

  • Pasta con le sarde, lemon spaghetti, linguine alle vongole

Why choose a wine made from Insolia?

It is perfect for anyone who loves fresh, saline wines, ideal for summer
It offers Mediterranean aromas authentic and recognisable
It pairs perfectly with seafood cooking and light dishes
Excellent value for money, including in organic versions

Insolia: My personal top three

  • 1
    Charme 2025 - Firriato

    Charme 2025 - Firriato

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: Etna, Italy, Sicily
    Discover this wine
  • 2
    La vigna di Gioacchino 2024 - Azienda Agricola Sofia

    La vigna di Gioacchino 2024 - Azienda Agricola Sofia

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: Etna, Italy, Sicily
    Discover this wine
  • 3
    Inzolia 2012 - Candido

    Inzolia 2012 - Candido

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: Camporeale, Italy, Sicily
    Discover this wine

All those I have tried