I Custodi

From its beginning in 2007, local owner Mario Paluzzi set the groundwork to make I Custodi  an Etna fuoriclasse, as the Italians say, one of the greats. Mario has had unwavering passion to work exclusively with the ancient albarello bush vines, some of which in his possession are 150+ years old. He also has key vineyards holdings on the northern and southeastern slopes, and a cellar that allows for long ferments and exteneded elevage.

I Custodi’s cellar master is long-time Etna guru Salvo Foti, and his touch is one of a bianchista (white wine lover) prizing elegance, tension, and keeping pristine the volcanic spice found in these wines. Mario and Salvo have decided to release both red and whites only after extended elevage; it’s a sign of the dedication of this winery to natural and fine wines.

I Custodi has been on the Etna journey from the beginning, and dedicating themselves every year to tending the vineyards and the wine in the cellar. They’ve managed to do what few producers have: channel the raw emotion of these active volcanic wines, but also to preserve the aromatics and structure of old vine vineyards, give them plenty of bottle time before release.