A Sicilian legacy of quality, sustainability and tradition
Tenuta Palmeri is a beautiful example of Sicilian entrepreneurial spirit, steeped in integration, cultural exchange, and passion. Founded in 2002 by Ueli and Erika Breitschmid-Heiniger, who hail from the Lucerne region in Switzerland, it is a story that began with love for the rugged hills of the Val di Noto and a desire to revive the area’s viticultural heritage.
The ancient manor house belonged to the prestigious Lutri family, one of Avola’s most important families, that traces its origins to the noble Swiss family of Lutry, which lends an intriguing historical connection between the Swiss founders and this land.
Today, Tenuta Palmeri spans over 50 hectares, with 20 dedicated to vineyards growing both red and white grape varieties. The estate produces Nero d’Avola, the emblematic Sicilian grape, along with international varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah for reds, and Moscato, Grillo, and Chardonnay for whites. The goal is to produce wines of exceptional quality with a strong local identity, using eco-sustainable practices that protect biodiversity and the environmental heritage.
The winery is powered entirely by solar energy and employs a modern osmotic irrigation system, designed to rationalize water consumption. Sustainability extends beyond environmental factors: Palmeri revives traditional manual farming techniques that reconnect the winemaker with the land. The result is a “marriage” between man and nature, a celebration of life and hope passed down through the centuries.
The production process is hands-on and committed to preserving the unique terroir of the Val di Noto. With an average yield of 30 to 50 hectoliters per hectare and 5,000 plants per hectare, Palmeri wines are meticulously crafted through careful grape selection. The first bottle of Rosso (Red Wine) was produced in 2009, and now, 60,000 bottles are produced each year. Palmeri wines are highly appreciated abroad, with export markets in Switzerland, Belgium, Greece, Spain, Argentina, the United States, and Japan.
The commitment to quality extends beyond wine production. The family has invested in architectural restoration to preserve the estate’s historical beauty, blending new construction harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. A member of the “Strada del Vino del Val di Noto,” the winery promotes both local culture and tourism, offering visitors unique wine tasting experiences amidst the stunning hills of Avola.
Tenuta Palmeri has been honored with numerous prestigious awards, including gold and silver medals at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. The estate also champions various cultural and social initiatives in Avola, Noto, and the southern Val di Noto region, reinforcing its connection to the community. In response to increasing demand for organic wines, Palmeri remains committed to producing wines that reflect both the natural environment and cultural heritage of this extraordinary land.
As the estate expands its hospitality offerings and moves forward with new agricultural projects, the family’s commitment to both quality and sustainability remains unwavering, ensuring that Tenuta Palmeri will continue to thrive for generations to come.
