It all began in 1880, when notary Paolo Pellegrino, a passionate winemaker driven by his love for Marsala wine, founded a winery destined to become one of the most important in Sicily. Thus, almost 150 years ago, this pioneering venture started vinifying the famous wine, marketing it worldwide. Today, Cantine Pellegrino is celebrated for three pillars of winemaking: Marsala, native Sicilian varieties and liqueurs from Pantelleria.
«For seven generations, Pellegrino Wineries have stood as a symbol of Sicilian winemaking excellence»
140 Years of Winemaking Tradition Across Five Family Estates
The vineyards of Pellegrino Wineries lie in Sicily’s far west, one of Europe’s most revered and abundant wine-growing regions, known for its exceptional native Sicilian varietals. This unique area, with its intense light, dry climate, cool soils, southern winds and significant day-to-night temperature shifts, provides ideal conditions for winemaking.
The family’s five estates are all located in the Trapani province, covering about 150 hectares with diverse terroirs – from sandy paleo-beaches to clay-rich soils – each offering a natural home to these thriving vines.
With over 140 years of winemaking heritage, Cantine Pellegrino 1880 has honed a deep understanding of its vineyards and cultivation techniques. Each estate serves as a testing ground, where years of vineyard research have helped identify the ideal soils and climates for each grape variety. This expertise allows them to offer a diverse range of wine types, crafted from Sicily’s finest terroirs.
«Across 150 hectares and five estates, Pellegrino Wineries embrace the art of winemaking, blending it with research into Sicily’s diverse terroirs»
The Vineyards of Cantine Pellegrino
The largest of the Pellegrino family estates, Gazzerotta spans 90 hectares in Mazara del Vallo. The land here is rich, brown and clay-based, with mineral content ideal for a wide variety of grape varieties. Alongside the famed Nero d’Avola, Gazzerotta nurtures two ancient Grillo vineyards from the Pellegrino clone, planted in 1981 and 1982, as well as an experimental Malbec vineyard and a small plot of Frappato.
Located in Petrosino, Il Salinaro Estate covers 14 hectares of limestone and sandy soil, part of the Mediterranean’s iconic red lands. Grillo vineyards thrive here, just a stone’s throw from the sea, where the land is naturally irrigated and cradles the vines as they ripen in the sun. The grapes reflect a perfect balance of minerality and salinity, thanks to the coastal breezes that sweep through this terroir.
In Mazara del Vallo, just inland from the coast at 150 meters above sea level, lies the 19-hectare Kelbi Estate, embraced by Mediterranean scrubland. Acquired in the 19th century, this fertile land offers an ideal balance of air and water in the soil, creating optimal conditions for cultivating Catarratto.
In the inland area of Marsala, Pellegrino Winery’s 11-hectare Rinazzo Estate is dedicated to Syrah, a variety chosen for its adaptability to even the harshest conditions. This rugged estate features a sandy, desert-like terroir, with nutrient-poor soil, high daytime temperatures and significant temperature swings. Here, extreme viticulture techniques are essential.
Located in Marsala with sweeping views of Mazara del Vallo, Mount Erice and the Stagnone Nature Reserve, the Rakalìa Estate is a vibrant, fertile property known for its high productivity. Spanning approximately 3 hectares across two plots at different altitudes, the estate thrives with abundant water, generous sunshine and refreshing breezes.
«Pellegrino’s clonal selection project highlights two standout Sicilian grape varieties: Grillo and Catarratto»
Pellegrino’s Sustainable Winemaking Legacy
At the heart of Cantine Pellegrino’s production philosophy is a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Embracing a fully organic approach, the winery cultivates its grapes with respect for the land, employing sustainable practices from vineyard to cellar. Energy-efficient processes and eco-conscious production cycles are thoughtfully integrated to minimize the winery’s impact on the landscape. These ongoing efforts have proudly earned Cantine Pellegrino the prestigious SosTain environmental sustainability certification, underscoring its dedication to a greener future.
«At Pellegrino, the grapes are cultivated using organic farming practices, reflecting a deep commitment to sustainability»
A Diverse Wine Portfolio in Three Unique Cellars
Cantine Pellegrino’s rich selection of wines, cultivated from their five estates (and vineyards on Pantelleria), comes to life in three dedicated cellars. In Marsala, the winery produces its signature Marsala wines and fortified selections, while the Cardilla cellar is devoted to crafting white and red wines. Meanwhile, the Pantelleria cellar captures the essence of the island with exquisite passito, moscato and the distinct wines of the island.
Experiencing the History of Marsala at the Historic Cantine Pellegrino
In Marsala, visitors can dive year-round into the deep-rooted history of the territory with a visit to the historic Pellegrino cellars. This extraordinary experience goes beyond wine enthusiasts, inviting anyone eager for cultural immersion into a setting rich in history, art and gastronomic delights – a multifaceted journey that truly captures the spirit of Pellegrino 1880’s heritage.
«The “Marsala Revolution” introduces 5 distinct styles of Marsala wine, reimagined for the contemporary palate»
A Wonderful Journey Through Time and Taste
The tour begins at the Ouverture – a multifunctional, contemporary space that contrasts with the heritage of the main winery but embodies Pellegrino’s forward-looking vision. Serving as the entryway to the cellars and the heart of hospitality, Ouverture offers a stunning tasting area overlooking the Egadi Islands. With architecture that mirrors the prow of a ship, this space feels poised for exploration, seamlessly blending with its surroundings and crafted from materials that honor the landscape.
From here, the visit continues through the monumental halls of the historic cellars, where visitors uncover the legacy of Marsala wine and its meticulous production process. Guests walk through the impressive Great Barrel Hall, the Small Barrel Hall and the Soleras Hall, which holds over a thousand casks, barrels and barriques aging the various Marsala wines. Here, everything from classic Marsala to the innovative “Marsala Revolution” line comes to life, encapsulating centuries of tradition with a contemporary twist.
Uncover Hidden Treasures
Inside the Pellegrino cellars, guests will discover a collection of rare treasures and private exhibits. Among these are archaeological artifacts from the Punic era, original and intricately decorated Sicilian carts and a small museum dedicated to master coopers. Visitors can also view plaster casts of a Punic ship from 241 B.C., recovered with the financial support of the Pellegrino family, and explore the Pellegrino 1880 poster gallery. An extraordinary highlight is the archive of correspondence from the English Ingham-Whitaker families, which spans 110 volumes and “tells” the storied legacy of Marsala wine.
«From the very beginning, the Pellegrino Wineries have been deeply rooted in their territory, exquisite design AND feminine sensibility»
The Pellegrino Silos and Family Recipes
Once used to store wines, the Pellegrino Silos have been transformed into an inviting hospitality space with breathtaking views of the Stagnone Lagoon and Egadi Islands. With minimalist design and bright, open spaces, this venue features an innovative kitchen hosting local culinary talents alongside renowned chefs from Italy and around the world. Here, guests can take part in cooking classes based on the Pellegrino family’s treasured recipes, passed down by generations of Pellegrino women. It’s a journey through the flavors of Marsala and Sicily, with a hint of French influence.
«On the breathtaking Egadi Islands, Pellegrino Winery has planted nearly 1 million trees across over 1000 hectares of land»
Salina Genna: A Magical Setting
As warm weather arrives, just outside Marsala, the enchanting Salina Genna sets the perfect stage for an immersive wine tasting experience. This magical landscape, featuring white salt mounds, historic windmills and pink flamingos against unforgettable sunsets over the Stagnone Lagoon and Egadi Islands, enhances every flavor.
At the Teatro a Mare Pellegrino 1880 – a stunning open-air theater crafted from tuff, salt and wood – Pellegrino wines come to life through captivating storytelling by actors who convey their essence. It’s a space where wine, art and culture unite in perfect harmony, embodying the spirit of the Pellegrino legacy.
A Legacy of Responsibility: Pellegrino Wineries Commitment to Sicily
From the very beginning, the Pellegrino family has paired its winemaking enterprise with a deep-rooted commitment to social responsibility. Their initiatives aim to instill strong values in future generations regarding business ethics, environmental stewardship and the rich cultural heritage of Sicily. Through restoration projects, conservation efforts and the enhancement of the island’s immense natural beauty, Pellegrino’s vision transcends the world of wine. Their significant patronage of the arts and local culture solidifies their status as one of Sicily’s leading wine families, safeguarding traditions and nurturing the land for generations to come.
«Pellegrino WinerIES proudly unveils its new vintage visual identity, drawing inspiration from the vibrant enthusiasm of the 1950s to 1970s»
WINERY OPENINGS, TOURS AND TASTINGS & WINE CATALOG
– The wine tourism activity is open all year round, reservation required: for available dates and reservations see the booking calendars here, for more info and reservations write to booking.ouverture@carlopellegrino.it
– 9 tasting possibilities:
Discovering Marsala (tour of historic cellars, tasting of 3 Marsalas directly tapped from the barrels paired with small samples of territorial specialties, duration 1 h, visit time h 11 am, immediate reservation, about 20 euros, payment on site the day of the event)
Discovering Sicily (tour of historic cellars, tasting of 5 wines made from native Sicilian grape varieties including 2 whites + 1 red + 1 Marsala + 1 Passito paired with small samples of territorial specialties, duration 1.45 h, visit time h 16, immediate reservation, about 35 euros, payment on site the day of the event)
Family Estates (tour of historic cellars, tasting of 5 wines made from grapes grown on family estates paired with small samples of territorial specialties, duration 1.45 h, visit time h 16, the organizer can confirm the appointment or arrange an alternative time, about 35 euros, payment on site the day of the event)
Discovering Sicily Top Selection (visit of the historic cellars, tasting of a special selection of Pellegrino wines made from native Sicilian grape varieties and composed of 2 whites + 1 red + 1 Marsala + 1 Passito in combination with small samples of territorial specialties, duration 1.45 h, visit time h 16, immediate reservation, about 45 euros, payment on site the day of the event)
Terra Madre Light Lunch (tasting of 4 wines including 1 white + 1 red + 1 Marsala + 1 Passito and savory and sweet specialties typical of Sicilian cuisine, minimum 4 people, on request possibility of fewer participants and exclusive experiences)
Mare Nostrum (tasting of a special selection of 4 wines including 1 white + 1 red + 1 Marsala + 1 Passito with seafood tasting menu based on traditional Sicilian dishes, minimum 4 people, on request possibility of a lower number of participants and exclusive experiences)
Around the Marsalas (tour of historic cellars and Silos, tasting of 5 Marsalas paired with 5 traditional Sicilian dishes, minimum 4 people, on request possibility of a lower number of participants and exclusive experiences)
Cooking School (visit of the historic cellars and Silos, tasting of a selection of Pellegrino wines in combination with traditional dishes of western Sicily prepared together with a haute cuisine expert in the Pellegrino Silos, duration 3 h, minimum 6 people, on request possibility of a lower number of participants and exclusive experiences, price on request, for information and reservations write to booking.ouverture@carlopellegrino.it)
Casa Pellegrino Cooking Class (visit of historic cellars and Silos, tasting of a selection of Pellegrino wines paired with dishes based on recipes handed down for generations in the Pellegrino family, duration 3.30 h, price on request, for information and reservations write to booking.ouverture@carlopellegrino.it)
– For special requirements regarding schedules, groups and languages (possibility of tours also in French and German, duration 1h) write to booking.ouverture@carlopellegrino.it
– For private, public and professional events, the facility offers three different venues: the historic cellars, where among long rows of barrels Marsala has always rested; the Ouverture, the place of choice for tasting wines in a modern setting, with large rooms and terraces overlooking the Egadi Islands; and the Silos Pellegrino, an example of industrial archaeology, now converted into a refined and bright panoramic room dedicated to wine tasting combined with typical local cuisine; the structure is managed by staff specialized in the activities of reception and hospitality in the winery and relies on external suppliers able to ensure the highest quality levels of services offered; for information and reservations write to info@carlopellegrino.it
– Cantine Pellegrino 1880 in Pantelleria
CONTACTS
Lungomare Battaglia delle Egadi 10 (ex Lungomare Salinella)
91025 Marsala (TP)
tel. 0923 719 970
info@carlopellegrino.it
www.carlopellegrino.it
