Regional Institute of Wine and Oil

Favignana, pruning certificate for prisoners

Three months to learn how to prune the vine. A training course dedicated to inmates of the Favignana prison. Precisely on that island, that territory, where the cultivation of vines boasts its long tradition. A new opportunity of great importance on a social level which was conceived and organized by the Regional Institute of Wines and Oils of Sicily in collaboration with the prison of Favignana. A small "test" that proved successful and could therefore have a more structured sequel, giving prisoners the opportunity to work in the field and perhaps create a wine entirely produced by them.

There is an air of great collaboration between the regional body and the management of the Favignana prison. “All forces are being put together – explains the general director of IRVOS, Lucio Monte – to contribute to the follow-up of the project”. Collaborations with the Municipality of Favignana and the schools are envisaged. As well as the involvement of private individuals. “We are satisfied with this first experience – comments the prison director, Renato Persico – and we hope that it can have a future”. Now everything is about identifying land to allow prisoners to "try out" on the territory. And also to find funds. Meanwhile, yesterday, 5 June, the certificates were delivered to the ten inmates who participated in the training course which was held from December 2013 to February of the current year. The lessons were held by two IRVOS officials, the agronomist Antonio Sparacio and the oenologist Salvatore Sparla, assisted by Adriana Turco who took care of the administrative part. Theoretical and practical lessons, on potted vines brought into the prison, which also included a mini tasting course. “A beautiful experience – comment the officials of the institution who traveled back and forth during the winter to guarantee the lessons – which also enriched us on a human level. The inmates were very interested and some of them showed a good predisposition."