Partinico: Grape Harvest in the Lands of Frederick II of Swabia

Partinico, a historic town in Sicily, offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich tradition of grape harvesting. Nestled in the lands once ruled by Frederick II of Swabia, this two-hour activity invites guests to handpick ripe grapes, explore ancient pressing techniques, and savor the fresh must. Beyond the grape-picking experience, the winery showcases its renowned viticulture, inviting visitors to explore the cellar, indulge in a delightful Sicilian brunch, and partake in wine tastings. This captivating experience not only celebrates the region’s cultural heritage but also promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to connect with the essence of Sicilian winemaking.

Key Points

• Participate in a 2-hour grape harvesting and winemaking experience in Partinico, a historic town associated with Frederick II of Swabia.
• Handpick ripe grapes, observe ancient pressing techniques, and savor freshly pressed grape juice during the activity.
• Explore the winery’s cellar, learn about the wine aging process, and enjoy a wine tasting paired with a Sicilian brunch.
• The experience is available in Italian, English, and French, with a starting price of €42.17 per person.
• The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, and participants are advised to wear comfortable, rugged clothing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This grape harvest experience in Partinico, the lands of Frederick II of Swabia, lasts for 2 hours and is offered in Italian, English, and French.

Guests can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The price starts at €42.17 per person.

During the activity, you will walk through family vineyards, harvest grapes by hand, press the grapes, and taste the fresh must.

They’ll also visit the cellar to learn about grape processing and wine aging.

The experience concludes with a brunch featuring five typical Sicilian appetizers and a wine tasting.

Experience Highlights

Guests begin their grape harvest experience by walking through the family vineyards and harvesting the grapes by hand. After the harvest, they’ll press the grapes and taste the fresh must. Then, they’ll visit the cellar to learn about the grape processing and wine aging.

Feature	Details
Walk and harvest grapes by hand	In the family vineyards
Press grapes and taste fresh must	Get a hands-on experience
Visit the cellar	Learn about grape processing and wine aging
Enjoy brunch with typical Sicilian appetizers and wines	Includes local cheeses, salami, and more

The experience concludes with a brunch featuring five typical Sicilian appetizers and a tasting of the winery’s white and red wines.

Grape Harvesting

As visitors arrive at the family vineyards, they’ll don their comfortable clothes and make their way through the lush rows of grapevines.

The grape harvest experience allows guests to:

• Handpick ripe grapes from the vines, feeling the satisfying weight of each cluster.
• Observe the ancient technique of grape pressing, as the must flows into a collection vessel.
• Savor the fresh, sweet taste of the just-pressed grape juice.
• Explore the winery’s cellar, learning about the intricate process of wine aging.
• Delight in the pairing of the estate’s wines with a brunch of local delicacies.

Wine Tasting and Brunch

After exploring the vineyards and witnessing the ancient techniques of grape pressing, visitors will savor the winery’s exquisite wines paired with a delectable brunch.

The brunch features local cheeses, salami, farm-grown vegetables, homemade bread with olive oil, organic honey, and citrus jellies. Guests will also enjoy a tasting of the winery’s white and red wines.

The wine tasting and brunch provide a perfect opportunity to take in the flavors of Sicily. Participants must be adults for the wine tastings, as those under 18 can’t be served alcohol.

This experience offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s renowned winemaking heritage.

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Cellar Visit and Processing

Following the visit to the vineyards and the hands-on experience of grape harvesting, guests then proceed into the winery’s cellar.

Here, they’ll learn about the intricacies of grape processing and wine aging:

• Discover the traditional methods used to crush and press the grapes, extracting the must.

• Explore the temperature-controlled fermentation tanks and understand the crucial role of yeast in transforming grape juice into wine.

• Witness the delicate process of barrel aging, where the wine develops its signature aromas and flavors.

• Gain insights into the blending techniques that create the winery’s unique wine profiles.

• Appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of wine produced on this historic estate.

Booking and Availability

Booking for the grape harvest experience in Partinico is straightforward. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later – no upfront payment is required. Participants should check availability for the various starting times offered. The activity is open to adults, as the wine tasting is limited to those 18 and over.

Booking Information
Reserve now, pay later
Check availability for start times
Adults only for wine tasting

Those with dietary requirements or special needs should inform the organizers in advance. The grape harvest experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Important Considerations

The grape harvest experience in Partinico may not be suitable for all visitors.

It’s important to consider that the activity isn’t accessible for wheelchair users. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get dirty during the hands-on grape picking and pressing.

Plus, guests should report any food allergies, intolerances, or special needs in advance to ensure the experience is accommodating.

• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Wear comfortable, rugged clothing
• Report food allergies or special needs ahead of time
• Activity involves manual grape harvesting and processing
• Winery visit includes wine tastings for adults only

Location and Duration

The grape harvest experience takes place in Partinico, a picturesque town located in the lands once ruled by Frederick II of Swabia.

The activity lasts for 2 hours, allowing participants to immerse themselves fully in the grape-harvesting process.

Whether you speak Italian, English, or French, you’ll be able to fully engage in this unique cultural experience.

And with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, you can plan your trip with peace of mind.

The cost is just £42.17 per person, making it an affordable way to discover the winemaking traditions of this historic region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the History Behind the Frederick II of Swabia Connection?

Frederick II of Swabia, a 13th-century Holy Roman Emperor, was known for his love of Sicily and its vineyards. The grape harvest experience takes place in the lands he once governed, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich winemaking history.

Are There Any Unique Grape Varieties Grown in the Vineyard?

The vineyard grows indigenous Sicilian grape varieties like Nero d’Avola and Insula. These local grapes are well-suited to the region’s hot climate and produce distinct, full-bodied wines with rich flavors and aromas.

Can I Request a Private or Group Tour for My Friends and Family?

Yes, visitors can request a private or group tour for their friends and family. The experience offers flexibility, allowing guests to customize their grape harvest adventure to suit their needs and preferences.

Do You Offer Any Transportation or Parking Options for Visitors?

Transportation and parking aren’t included, but the provider can arrange private transfers for an additional fee. There’s limited on-site parking available on a first-come, first-served basis.

What Are the Weather Conditions Like During the Grape Harvest Season?

The grape harvest season typically brings mild temperatures and sunny skies, though visitors should be prepared for potential rain showers. Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire to fully enjoy the outdoor grape-picking experience.

Recap

Discover the rich winemaking heritage of Partinico during this immersive grape harvesting experience. Handpick ripe grapes, learn ancient pressing techniques, and savor fresh must. Explore the winery’s cellar, enjoy a Sicilian brunch, and taste the region’s renowned wines. This unique activity highlights Partinico’s cultural and viticulture traditions. Bookings are available, and the experience lasts approximately two hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: