Good farming is our first responsibility
At Donnafugata, sustainability begins in the vineyard. Every territory requires care and agricultural practices that respect its natural balance.
Growing vines in Sicily means working with a climate that is as generous as it is demanding: limited rainfall, strong winds and significant temperature variations. This is where sustainable agriculture becomes a practical choice rather than a theoretical one.
For years, the company has adopted techniques that respect both the soil and the vines, including drip irrigation, integrated pest management, reduced use of plant protection products and careful attention to the soil’s natural fertility. In some areas, such as Pantelleria, the vines grow without irrigation, following an ancient practice that remains remarkably relevant today: the Pantelleria “alberello” head-trained bush practice, recognised by UNESCO.
Alongside the vineyards, natural areas, hedgerows, green corridors and crops that encourage biodiversity all have their place. It is not just about the landscape. It is about creating a balance that makes the vineyard stronger and more resilient. Good viticulture also means safeguarding the future of the territories in which we operate, preserving their authenticity through responsible and conscious farming practices.
Making efficient use of natural resources
Sustainable agriculture also depends on the ability to use resources efficiently and responsibly. At Donnafugata, water and energy management are supported by technologies and monitoring systems that help reduce waste and optimise operations. Where possible, drip micro-irrigation is used in the vineyards, while much of the energy used in the wineries comes from renewable sources, thanks to the photovoltaic systems installed across the various estates.
Integrated pest management and precision viticulture
Caring for the vine means observing, understanding and intervening only when necessary. Donnafugata adopts integrated pest management techniques, including the use of pheromone traps for pest control. In addition, constant monitoring of agrometeorological parameters and the use of forecasting systems supported by artificial intelligence make it possible to plan targeted agronomic interventions, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Protecting biodiversity
Biodiversity is a fundamental resource for maintaining the balance of agricultural ecosystems. For this reason, Donnafugata dedicates a significant portion of its land to natural areas, which today account for more than one fifth of the company’s total estate. Hedgerows, green corridors, woodland and natural vegetation encourage the presence of beneficial insects, birds and other animal species, helping to make the vineyards more resilient and sustainable over time.
Experimental vineyard
Innovation also means experimentation. At the Contessa Entellina estate, Donnafugata carries out research activities dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of native Sicilian grape varieties. The experimental vineyard is home to numerous varieties and biotypes, helping to deepen knowledge of the island’s viticultural heritage and address the future challenges facing viticulture.
Centuries-old vines and olive trees, guardians of the landscape
Sustainability also means preserving what time has safeguarded. Across the Donnafugata estates, centuries-old vines and olive trees represent an agricultural, cultural and landscape heritage of extraordinary value. On Pantelleria in particular, the ancient vines trained according to the Pantelleria “alberello” head-trained bush practice tell the story of a unique agricultural tradition recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Alongside them, centuries-old olive trees bear witness to the deep connection between people, land and nature. Preserving these plants means keeping the memory of these places alive and passing on to future generations a legacy of biodiversity, knowledge and identity.
The HoneyBees & Vineyard Project
The health of the vineyard also depends on bees. Donnafugata took part in the HoneyBees & Vineyard project promoted by Fondazione SOStain Sicilia to help protect the Sicilian black honeybee, a valuable pollinator that is now at risk. Through the presence of apiaries and the analysis of the honey and pollen collected, the project made it possible to monitor biodiversity across the territories where the company operates and confirm the environmental quality of the surrounding agricultural ecosystems.
