Materials and Components for the Sustainable Retrofitting and Climatic Optimization of Etnean Wineries in Sicily, Italy

The traditional wineries of Mount Etna represent a unique cultural, architectural, and productive heritage, deeply rooted in the region's long winemaking history. However, many of these structures require retrofitting to meet contemporary needs while preserving their historical integrity and environmental significance. An effective approach to the restoration of Etnean wineries should combine innovative and sustainable solutions with traditional techniques, thus fostering a harmonious balance between heritage preservation, energy efficiency, and the reduction of environmental impact. The research focused on the study of several wineries in the Etnean area, identifying recurring typological, technical, constructive, and material invariants that recur across these structures. Based on these findings, compatible interventions on the building envelope were proposed, aiming to improve the indoor hygrothermal performance of wine cellars. These improvements do not only optimize the conditions for wine ageing but also elevate the quality and functionality of indoor spaces. In the current market, marked by a growing demand for high-quality wine, an accurate control of the cellar's climatic conditions is essential for ensuring superior product standards. The proposed interventions incorporate natural materials and components, employing manual or mechanized techniques. Their environmental impacts were evaluated using the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to identify the most sustainable retrofit solutions.