Grillo
The Grillo is a white grape variety native to the Sicily western, famous for being one of the grapes traditionally used to produce Marsala DOC, but increasingly appreciated also in the dry and as a single variety.
In recent decades it has won a new oenological standing thanks to producers who have brought out its the aromatic elegance, the structure and the ageing potential, making it one of the the most representative and versatile Sicilian whites.
Origin and spread
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Region: Sicily
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Main areas: Trapani, Marsala, Alcamo, Menfi, Mazara del Vallo, but also cooler inland areas
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It is a natural cross between Catarratto e Zibibbo (Moscato d’Alessandria)
Ampelographic characteristics
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Bunch: medium-large, compact
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Skin: thick, golden yellow, rich in polyphenols
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Excellent resistance to drought and high temperatures
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Ripening: mid-late
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A low but high-quality yield: Grillo also adapts well to high altitudes
Sensory profile of the wine
Colour:
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Bright straw yellow, sometimes with golden highlights
Aromas:
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Mediterranean fruit: citrus, white peach, melon
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Floral notes: orange blossom, camomile
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Aromatic accents: wild herbs, wild fennel, almond, sea salt
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In the evolved or sur lie versions: honey, cereals, hay, iodine notes
Palate:
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Fresh, full, savoury, with good structure
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Well-integrated acid tension, dry, lingering finish
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In the best examples: ageing capacity surprising (even 5–8 years)
Winemaking styles
| Style | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Stainless steel | To enhance primary aromas and freshness |
| Ageing on fine lees | Creamy texture, greater depth |
| Fermentation in wood or tonneaux | Complex wines, for ageing |
| Orange or skin-contact versions | Herbaceous notes, slight tannic grip, great originality |
| Grillo for Marsala | The aromatic and alcoholic base for Marsala Superiore, Riserva and Vergine |
Food pairings
Fish grilled, raw or stewed
Seafood salads, fish couscous
Grilled vegetables, aromatic herbs, vegetarian dishes
Fresh or medium-aged cheeses
Pasta with clams, bottarga, swordfish, busiate trapanesi
Why choose a Grillo wine?
It is native, modern and mineral
It has a a fresh style but with depth
Represents the evolution of white Sicily
It offers great versatility, including as orange wine or with light ageing in wood
It is often vinified in organic or natural versions
Grillo: My personal podium
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1
Viviri 2024 - Tenuta Rapitalà
- Type: Vino Bianco
- Region: Camporeale, Italy, Sicily
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2
Bolina 2022 - La Vela
- Type: Sparkling wine or Champagne
- Region: Italy, Marsala, Sicily
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3
All those I have tried
