At the foothills of Mount Etna, in a complex territory endowed with unique characteristics due to its volcanic origin, Duca di Salaparuta has chosen the Vajasindi Estate in the Passopisciaro hamlet, in the municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia. The estate comprises 21 hectares of land divided into two terraces, the first one at approximately 700 meters above sea level and the second and third at 620 meters in altitude. Here, Duca di Salaparuta has chosen to embrace the challenges of mountain farming, prioritizing the healthiness of the soil over simplicity, with the aim of minimizing interventions in the vineyard. The estate’s location in the northern area of the volcano results in a unique microclimate that makes it particularly well-suited for the cultivation of red grape varieties. The vineyards are terraced, with dark brown soil that is soft and porous due to the presence of a significant amount of small-sized pumice gravel, providing excellent drainage capacity. The selection of these territories was made by the experts at Duca di Salaparuta, taking into account ongoing climate changes and significant factors such as excellent ventilation, adequate water drainage capacity, and a substantial temperature range. These factors, combined with the unique soil composition, have allowed for the cultivation of a native Etna grape variety, the Nerello Mascalese, grown in the traditional bush-trained system and used to produce Làvico. Additionally, a grape variety known for its strong character and unmistakable elegance, Pinot Noir, is cultivated using a trellis system. A true oenological challenge undertaken by Duca di Salaparuta, who, at the foot of the volcano, has decided to produce a pure Pinot Noir: Sciaranèra, vinified with grapes grown in the lower part of the estate. But not only that, at Vajasindi, Duca Nero is also born, the new Pinot Noir sparkling wine produced using the Charmat method, which combines elegance and freshness on the nose with a palate that boasts a unique minerality. Climate – Cold and snowy winters, cool springs, and dry summers. An area with good ventilation and the right level of humidity. The northern slope is characterized by lower temperatures, resulting in a later environment but with strong temperature fluctuations. The northern area where we are located experiences lower temperatures in the summer, which leads to the production of wines that are less warm and affects their alcohol content. However, it guarantees wines that are more balanced, harmonious, and elegant.