Peter and I tasted many Sicilian wines before and during our trip to Sicily. Here are seven favorites.

2002 Benanti Pietramarina ($45)

A truly unique white made from the ancient Carricante grape, this is a voluptuous yet well-balanced wine.

2005 Ceuso Scurati ($15)

Made from 100 percent Nero d’Avola, this delicious red, marked by bitter cherry flavors, is a great value.

2004 Fatascià l’Amuleto ($20)

This lush, earthy Nero d’Avola blend is from the prestigious Cerasuolo di Vittoria region.

2005 Milazzo Maria Costanza ($21)

A bright, lively blend of Chardonnay and Inzolia, this white is a terrific aperitif or match for seafood.

2005 Planeta la Segreta ($15)

This full-bodied blend (which includes Viognier and Chardonnay) comes from a highly progressive producer.

2003 Spadafora Sole dei Padri ($80)

This beautifully polished Syrah is made by one of Sicily’s rising stars.

2003 Tasca d’Almerita Rosso del Conte ($50)

This super-concentrated red is perhaps the most profound Nero d’Avola made in Sicily.