Exploring the Heart of Sicily at Augustali Farm
Nestled amid the rolling hills and sun-drenched landscapes of Sicily, between the provinces of Trapani and Palermo, lies a farm unlike any other, where tradition, innovation, and delicious wine blend.
I recently had the privilege of traveling on EF Ultimate Break’s Sicily & Malta Getaway and visiting the remarkable Augustali Farm, run by Vincenzo and Finella, whose personal journey has shaped the land and the vision that guides it.
When asking Vincenzo and Finella what inspired them to start their farm, their answer was simple yet powerful: family and transformation. What began as a vineyard and olive grove passed down through generations has evolved into a vibrant learning environment. Drawing from diverse work experiences, Vincenzo and Finella set out to create a new kind of farm—one that honors the wisdom of the past while embracing forward-thinking ideas. In their own words, “True innovation starts from traditions.”
Sustainable farming isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a way of life. On this Sicilian farm, you won’t find pesticides, and the use of herbicides is kept to a minimum. Eco-friendly methods are embedded into daily routines, from utilizing glass wool in the olive groves to deter weevils (aka pesky beetles known to feast on plants), to planting rose bushes near the vineyards as natural guards against disease. It’s a philosophy that elevates both the winemaking and beekeeping on the farm, ensuring that every bottle of wine and every jar of honey is crafted with care for the earth.
What makes the wine and honey produced here so special? It’s a combination of nature’s gifts and the farmers’ passion. The vineyards thrive thanks to their proximity to the sea, the sun-drenched slopes facing southwest (also ideal for photos & sunsets), and the rich, sandy, red soils. Meanwhile, the location of the beehives in a flourishing citrus grove helps to infuse the honey with a unique fragrance and longevity.
One of the most inspiring aspects of this farm is its commitment to education. Finella, an “educational farmer,” welcomes guests of all ages to discover the joys and challenges of sustainable agriculture. She designs immersive, hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity, respect for nature, and a deeper understanding of where our food comes from.
Visiting this Sicilian farm was a solid reminder that farming isn’t just about crops—it’s about building community, respecting tradition, and creating a more sustainable future. My trip to Augustali started with an introduction to some of the residents of the farm—the animals—by Finella. From there, we were given our first glass of bubbly wine by Beatriz, our vibrant wine connoisseur and co-host for the evening, and continued through vineyards set in front of olive groves and vibrant citrus orchards. Along the way, we learned about the unique varieties of wine cultivated here, the character of the soil, and the unique climate that makes this area so special.
Not far from the vineyard, we walked to the heart of the farm: the winery. Built in the classic square style of a Sicilian baglio, or traditional farmhouse compound, Beatriz revealed to us the intricate steps of winemaking, from harvest to aging and bottling, complimented by another glass of wine of course.
Outside, we wrapped up the evening on the sprawling lawn, bordered by aromatic shrubs, centuries-old olive trees, and arches tangled with flowers. The farm team had thoughtfully prepared a cozy picnic spot, setting the scene for a feast under the stars. My picnic box was filled with Sicilian delicacies: savory local cured meats, creamy ricotta, garden-fresh vegetables, bright citrus marmalades, organic honey—all, of course, complimented with a glass of delicious red wine.
If you ever find yourself in Sicily, either on your own or on EF Ultimate Break’s Sicily & Malta Getaway, make your way to Augustali Organic Farm. You’ll leave with more than the taste of honey and wine (or maybe a bottle to put in your checked bag)—you’ll carry home a piece of its heart and a deeper connection to what it means to cultivate the land with love and respect.
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