Riofavara

Sicilia

Ispica

The Padova family’s vineyards were first planted in 1920, but it was not until 1984 that they started making their own wine, and until 1993 that they began to bottle under their own label. Massimo Padova has been making the wine and running the estate alongside his wife, Margherita, sister, Marianta and cousin, Antonella, for most of the last two decades. In that time they have focused on turning the estate into a model organic producer, making wines of effortless purity and intensity that are deeply reflective of their territory.

Riofavara is situated in the Noto Valley, an area that occupies most of the southeastern tip of the island, and they focus primarily on producing Nero d’Avola, although they also make a deliciously bright blend of Inzolia, Grecanico and Chardonnay and a stunning sweet wine made from Moscato Bianco (Moscato di Noto). The Padova’s belief that a healthy, organically farmed vineyard is the basis for great fruit, and great wine, is the foundation of their sustained success. It enables them to vividly express their superb sites and achieve rare balance in the finished wines.

Riofavara has been somewhat of a pioneer in recasting the image of Sicily. Once known only as a source of ruggedly rustic wines, today Sicily presents as a land of great vinous diversity, from simple sun-drenched reds to wines of considerable refinement and poise.