Le Casematte

Overview

Estate

Le Casematte is a boutique winery in Faro Superiore, near Messina, on Sicily’s northeastern tip. Founded by Gianfranco Sabatino and football legend Andrea Barzagli, the estate was created to revive and promote the historic Faro DOC denomination through wines deeply connected to the territory and its Mediterranean identity.

Climate

The climate is strongly influenced by proximity to both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Warm, sunny days, steady sea breezes, and pronounced day-to-night temperature variation create ideal conditions for balanced grape ripening, preserving freshness, aromatic complexity, and elegance.

Soil

The soils are predominantly sandy, calcareous, and rich in marine minerals, with volcanic influences typical of northeastern Sicily. These well-draining soils contribute to refined wines with pronounced sapidity and vibrant minerality.

Vineyards

The vineyards are planted on steep hillside terraces overlooking the Strait of Messina. Native grape varieties such as Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Nocera, and Nero d’Avola are cultivated in accordance with the historic traditions of the Faro DOC area. The vineyards receive intense sunlight and constant marine ventilation.

Cultivation

Viticulture is practiced with great respect for the landscape and biodiversity of the territory. Most vineyard operations are performed by hand because of the steep slopes and terraced vineyards. Yields are carefully managed to preserve concentration, freshness, and varietal expression.

Winery

The winery combines artisanal winemaking with modern precision. Fermentations occur in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, while aging takes place in oak barrels to refine structure and complexity while preserving territorial authenticity.

Family

Le Casematte was founded on the shared vision of Gianfranco Sabatino and Andrea Barzagli, united by a passion for Sicilian wine and the historic Faro denomination. The winery offers a contemporary interpretation of a unique, ancient wine territory overlooking the Strait of Messina.

Winemaker

Le Casematte benefits from the consulting expertise of Carlo Ferrini, one of Italy’s most respected enologists. His philosophy, which combines precision, elegance, and a strong sense of place, helps shape wines that express the freshness, minerality, and Mediterranean character of the Faro DOC.

Focus Point

• Boutique winery dedicated to the revival of Faro DOC. • Vineyards overlooking the Strait of Messina. • Strong focus on native Sicilian grape varieties. • Marine influence from both Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. • Handcrafted viticulture on steep terraced vineyards.