Catarratto
The Catarratto is one of the oldest and most widespread white grape varieties in Sicily, a symbol of the island's viticulture and a leading player in the production both of still wines which of Marsala DOC. It is a rustic, adaptable grape, able to express itself both in fresh, light versions, both in structured, complex wines, above all when grown at altitude or vinified with care.
There are two main biotypes:
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Catarratto Comune: more productive, widespread and neutral
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Catarratto Lucido: rarer and more prized, with a thin skin and finer aromas
Origin and spread
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Region: Sicily
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Main areas: Trapani, Palermo, Agrigento, Alcamo, Etna south-west
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Often also present in Sicilian white blends with Grillo, Inzolia or Carricante
Ampelographic characteristics
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Bunch: medium-large, compact
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Skin: thick, golden yellow, with a marked bloom
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Ripening: mid-late
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Resistance: very high to drought and hot winds
Sensory profile of the wine
Colour:
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Straw yellow with pale green or golden highlights
Aromas:
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White flowers (broom, orange blossom)
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Fresh fruit: apple, pear, white peach
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Citrus: grapefruit, citron
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Mediterranean notes: almond, aromatic herbs, salinity
Palate:
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Fresh and dry, with moderate acidity
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In the best examples: good structure and minerality, a savoury, persistent finish
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In basic versions: slender and easy-drinking, ideal for the everyday table
Wine styles
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In stainless steel to enhance freshness and immediacy
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Sur lie or short maceration, to enrich texture and complexity
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Ageing in wood (rare) for evolved versions
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An integral part of the Marsala DOC, especially in the dry and off-dry versions
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In a blend with Grillo, Inzolia, Zibibbo
Food pairings
Mediterranean salads, omelettes, stuffed vegetables
Grilled fish, stewed cuttlefish, tuna tartare
Fresh and soft cheeses
Dishes with citrus, leafy greens, light spices
Pasta con le sarde, fish couscous, arancine
Why choose Catarratto?
It is an authentic expression of Sicilian winemaking
It offers versatility, from everyday drinking to bottles for ageing
Ideal for those who love dry, saline whites with a sense of place
It has excellent value for money
It is often grown with organic or natural methods, above all in the hillside areas
Catarratto: My personal podium
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1
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2
La vigna di Gioacchino 2024 - Azienda Agricola Sofia
- Type: Vino Bianco
- Region: Etna, Italy, Sicily
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3
Marsala Superiore “Vecchio Florio” 2018 - Cantine Florio
- Type: A fortified wine
- Region: Italy, Marsala, Sicily
All those I have tried
