If you’re a wine enthusiast looking to discover a special corner of the island of Ischia, then Vini Crateca is a must-visit. This winery, located at the foot of Mount Epomeo, offers a selection of unique wines that capture the volcanic and marine soul of this stunning island.

If you’re a wine lover and want to discover a special corner of the island of Ischia, then Vini Crateca is a must-visit. This winery, located at the foot of Mount Epomeo, offers a selection of unique wines that capture the volcanic and marine soul of this stunning island.

The Story of Vini Crateca

Nestled in the lush green embrace of Ischia, where nature blends with millennia of history, lies the “Crateca” estate—a boutique winery born from the dream and determination of Giovanni and his three sons: Arnaldo, Piergiovanni, and Giampaolo.

Crateca’s vineyards are deeply rooted in the ancient viticultural culture of Ischia. The estate’s garden vineyard spans about 2 hectares at 250 meters above sea level on the fertile soils of an ancient crater. Native white and red vines harmoniously follow the panoramic terraces, producing healthy, ripe grapes. Both the vineyard and the cellar are dedicated to winemaking that respects varietal character and the uniqueness of the terroir.

In 2003, the rediscovery of an old estate abandoned for over thirty years gave life to a winery that today stands as a testament to passion, ingenuity, and perseverance. The 56,000-square-meter property is a mosaic of chestnut woods, rows of vines, and vegetable gardens, creating a diverse ecosystem in harmony with the Ischian landscape.

Crateca has made quality its hallmark, producing about 20,000 bottles annually. Every Crateca wine tells a story—a liquid narrative distilled from Fiano and Biancolella grapes for whites, and Piedirosso, Guarnaccia, and Aglianico for reds. Five distinct varieties reflect the island’s soul: Crateca Bianco, Crateca Rosato, Crateca Rosso, an IGP barrel-aged red, and a DOC Biancolella.

Crateca wines are not just products—they’re heirs to Ischia’s winemaking heritage, a land once known as Pithecusa, celebrated for its wine amphorae.

This legacy intertwines with the present through the 1955 discovery by archaeologist Giorgio Buchner of Nestor’s Cup, an artifact that speaks of wines that enchant and seduce, as described in the Iliad. That artifact inspired the name "Crastula," given to the estate’s signature barrel-aged wine—a name born from an ancient phrase uttered during its discovery: “agg truvat nata crastul.” Today, Crastula embodies Ischia’s essence.

Crateca is a gem set in the soil and history of Ischia. Guided by the wisdom of the Castagna family and a forward-looking vision, it symbolizes how a family dream can become an enduring heritage and a cultural icon of the island.

The winery merges with Ischian mythology in a symphony of narratives rooted in heroic times. Every glass becomes a bridge connecting the mythological past to the sensory experience of the present.

Crateca wine carries ancient symbolism, evoking the delicacies once reserved for the gods of Olympus. The nearby solfatara adds a direct link to Vulcan, god of fire and metallurgy, infusing the wine with that unique “grit and minerality” that defines it as an “expression of the volcano.”

Crateca Wines

Crateca Rosso Crastula

Crafted from late-harvest Aglianico and Piedirosso, this wine undergoes extended maceration and fermentation before aging on fine lees in new oak barriques. The result is a powerful yet elegant wine, with notes of cherry, blackberry, and rose, balanced by a refined tannic structure.

Crateca Biancolella

A refined interpretation of the Biancolella grape grown on volcanic soil refreshed by sea breezes. Bright straw yellow in color, it offers floral notes of acacia and citrus, with a subtle mineral texture. On the palate, it’s dynamic, fresh, and creamy.

Crateca Bianco

A blend of Biancolella and Fiano grapes, Crateca Bianco expresses the harmony of varietal traits with the typical minerality of volcanic soils. Aromas of yellow flowers, candied fruit, and citrus merge in a smooth, savory wine.

Crateca Rosso

A blend of Guarnaccia, Piedirosso, and Aglianico, this wine offers a quintessential interpretation of these varieties on volcanic soil. Warm and pleasant on the palate, with hints recalling both land and sea.

Crateca Rosato

A refined, unique rosé with a delicate pastel pink hue reminiscent of peach petals. The nose reveals fresh, graceful aromas of red fruits and flowers. Its winemaking respects varietal characteristics and the uniqueness of the terroir, making Crateca Rosato a true expression of the island—perfect with fish dishes, light appetizers, and summer meals.

For more information and to purchase these wines, visit the official Vini Crateca Ischia website.

Discover the charm of Ischia through its unique wines!