Case Old

In the world of wine, there are certain places that possess a special magic – Case Alte is undoubtedly one of them. The name derives from the elevation of the same name in western Sicily, where the Vaccaro family has been growing wine for three generations. Here, near Palermo, in the small municipality of Camporeale, a wine story unfolds that is characterised by passion, respect for nature and tireless pursuit of quality.

The history of the winery begins with the grandfather of the current owner Giuseppe Vaccaro. What started as a modest family business has developed over the decades into a flagship project of Sicilian wine culture. The successive expansion has always taken place in harmony with the family's values: authenticity, quality and deep connection with the terroir.

The year 2010 marks a decisive turning point in the history of Case Alte. With the construction of a new, modern winery, all the conditions were created to pursue the path of quality orientation even more consistently. At the same time, the course was set for completely organic viticulture – a decision that clearly underscores the philosophy of the house: the highest quality in harmony with nature.

Giuseppe Vaccaro emphasises at every opportunity how important it is to him to respect the achievements of his ancestors. This appreciation is reflected in every step of the work. Tradition is not understood here as a static concept, but as a living heritage that is carefully carried forward into the present.

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Terroir and Vineyards – The Treasure Trove of Case Alte

The vineyards of Case Alte extend at an elevation of up to 500 metres above sea level. This elevation is remarkable for western Sicily – only Vino Lauria in neighbouring Alcamo reaches even higher at 600 to 1,000 metres and gives the wines a special character. The gently rolling hills of this region have their own distinct identity, which differs clearly from other Sicilian wine regions such as Etna.

The soils are characterised by a fascinating mixture of clay and sand – a composition that gives the wines structure whilst also imparting a certain finesse.

This pedological peculiarity, combined with Sicily's Mediterranean climate, creates ideal conditions for viticulture. The warm days and cooler nights at this elevation ensure slow, steady ripening of the grapes and optimal development of the aromas.

The heart of the vineyards is formed by Sicily's autochthonous grape varieties: Grillo and Catarratto for the white wines, Nerello Mascalese and Nero d'Avola for the red varieties. This focus on indigenous grape varieties underscores the endeavour to preserve Sicily's wine-growing tradition and produce authentic wines that reflect the soul of the island.

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An interesting addition to the grape variety portfolio is Syrah, which was planted around the turn of the millennium – a decision that was quite characteristic of this era in Sicilian viticulture. The Mediterranean warmth and the special soil conditions enable this international grape variety to find its own distinctive, Sicilian-influenced expression here.

The management of the vineyards is carried out with the utmost care and consideration for natural conditions. Since 2010, all parcels have been worked according to organic principles. The renunciation of chemical plant protection products and synthetic fertilisers is for the Vaccaro family not merely a matter of wine quality, but also an expression of their responsibility towards the environment and future generations.

Winemaking – Craftsmanship with Finesse

In the winery of Case Alte, traditional winemaking craft and modern cellar technology combine into a harmonious unity. The philosophy is clear: the careful work in the vineyard should be gently completed in the cellar, without technical interventions distorting the authentic character of the wines.

The white wines 4 filari Grillo and 12 filari Catarratto are aged entirely in stainless steel tanks. This decision underscores the endeavour to preserve the varietal aromas and natural freshness of these grape varieties.

The Grillo impresses with its mineral notes and a lively acidity structure, whilst the Catarratto convinces with its delicate fruit aromas and its filigree texture. Both wines perfectly embody the strengths of Sicilian white wines: aromatic diversity, Mediterranean spice and refreshing drinkability.

In the vinification of the 16 filari Nero d'Avola, Giuseppe Vaccaro places particular emphasis on gentle extraction of pigments and tannins. The mash is allowed to remain on the grape skins for up to twelve days – a process that gives the wine structure and complexity.

Fermentation also takes place in stainless steel tanks to optimally develop the fruity components. Subsequently, the wine matures for eight months in French oak barrels, which gives it additional complexity and a fine tannin structure.

The Syrah di Macellarotto represents the quintessence of winemaking at Case Alte. Following careful selection of the grapes and gentle fermentation, this extraordinary wine matures for one year in French barriques.

But that's not all: after bottling, it is allowed to mature for a further year in the bottle before it leaves the wine cellar. The result is a wine of impressive depth and complexity – rich, dense fruit, fine spice notes and an elegant structure combine to form a harmonious whole.

All work processes in the winery are precisely coordinated with one another and follow the principle of minimal intervention. The modern cellar equipment serves merely to preserve the natural qualities of the grapes and bring them to full expression. Every step is carried out with the greatest care to bring out the full potential of the terroir and grape varieties in the finished wine.

The Wine Selection – Characterful Ambassadors of Sicily

The collection from Case Alte comprises a carefully curated selection of wines that all bear the house's signature: authenticity, character and a deep connection to Sicilian terroir. Each individual wine tells its own story and offers a distinctive taste experience.

The 4 Filari Grillo presents itself as a brilliant representative of this autochthonous Sicilian grape variety. On the nose, aromas of citrus fruits, white flowers and a subtle herbal note unfold. On the palate, it impresses with its vibrant acidity structure, mineral components and long, refreshing finish. A wine that perfectly captures the maritime freshness of Sicily and pairs beautifully with seafood and light appetisers.

With the 12 Filari Catarratto, Case Alte celebrates another indigenous grape variety of Sicily. This elegant white wine enchants with its complex bouquet, which recalls ripe yellow fruits, almonds and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it reveals a fascinating balance between creamy texture and invigorating freshness. The subtle minerality on the finish underscores its character as an authentic ambassador of Sicilian terroir.

The 16 Filari Nero d'Avola embodies the soul of Sicilian red wine culture. Intense and powerful, yet never heavy or overwrought, it presents itself with aromas of dark berries, cherries and a fine spice note. The eight months in French oak barrels lend it additional complexity and a silky tannin structure. A wine with considerable ageing potential that harmonises equally well with rustic meat dishes and mature cheese.

As the crowning glory of the range stands the Syrah di Macellarotto – the quintessence of winemaking at Case Alte. The international grape variety finds its own unique, Sicilian-influenced expression here. Dense, concentrated fruit meets complex spice notes and fine roasted aromas. The year-long barrel ageing and additional bottle maturity give it impressive depth and complexity. A wine for special occasions that knows how to delight with both its elegance and power.

All wines from Case Alte are characterised by their varietal typicity, yet at the same time allow the special terroir of western Sicily to shine through. They perfectly embody the strengths of Sicilian wines: aromatic diversity, structural power, Mediterranean flair and always with pleasant drinkability. It is therefore hardly surprising that the success story of these wines continues unabated and they are gaining increasing recognition among connoisseurs worldwide.

Sustainability and Future Vision – The Path of Case Alte

Since the construction of the new winery in 2010, Case Alte has consistently converted to organic viticulture. This decision stems from a deep conviction: only healthy soil and an intact ecosystem can produce grapes of the highest quality in the long term. The Vaccaro family sees itself not as owners, but as custodians of their land – a responsibility they take with the utmost seriousness.

Organic management encompasses the complete avoidance of chemically-synthetic plant protection products and artificial fertilisers. Instead, the focus is on organic fertilisers, green manuring and natural methods to strengthen the vines.

Biodiversity in the vineyards is actively promoted by establishing hedgerows and flower strips that provide habitat for numerous beneficial insects.

The winery also operates according to principles of sustainability. Modern technologies for energy conservation, thoughtful water management and the minimisation of waste are integral components of the operational concept. The new winery was designed so that all work processes interlock optimally and are structured in a resource-efficient manner.

Giuseppe Vaccaro repeatedly emphasises how important respect for the achievements of previous generations is to him. This appreciation for the past is closely linked with a clear vision for the future: Case Alte is to remain a place where outstanding wines can be created in harmony with nature for generations to come.

The winery's future vision encompasses the continuous refinement of winemaking methods, further exploration of the terroir and steady optimisation of sustainability across all operational areas. Particular attention is paid to climate change, which represents a major challenge especially for wine-growing regions in the Mediterranean. Through the adaptation of cultivation methods, the optimisation of irrigation and the research into heat-resistant clones of indigenous grape varieties, Case Alte is preparing itself for the changing climatic conditions.

The Vaccaro family is convinced that the future of Sicilian winemaking lies in the preservation and further development of authentic character. Case Alte sees itself as part of a larger movement that contributes to preserving Sicily's oenological heritage whilst simultaneously setting new standards for quality and sustainability.

In a world where wine consumption is increasingly characterised by awareness of quality, provenance and ecological aspects, Case Alte positions itself as a winery that has long embodied these values and expresses them in every single wine. The growing international recognition confirms that this approach is not only ecologically sound but also economically successful.

A visit to the Case Alte winery is an experience that offers deep insights into Sicilian wine culture. The Vaccaro family welcomes visitors with proverbial Sicilian hospitality and generously shares their knowledge and passion. Those who have had the opportunity to taste the wines where they are created take home not only bottles but also lasting memories of a special place – a place where the essence of Sicily is captured in every drop of wine.