Sicily's Hidden Grape: Catarratto Takes Center Stage

Catarratto, Sicily's most abundant white grape, is finally stepping into the spotlight after decades of being an unsung component in various wines. This grape, which constitutes a third of Sicily's vineyards and is the second most planted white grape in Italy, was historically used for anonymous table wines or as a secondary element in fortified wines like Marsala. However, contemporary winemakers are now producing sophisticated Catarratto wines that vividly express their unique origins, whether from volcanic soils, coastal influences, or inland hills.

Modern Catarratto wines are celebrated for their accessible yet complex flavor profiles, featuring notes of ripe pear, peach, lemon, and almond. These characteristics make them a popular choice for restaurants seeking affordable, crowd-pleasing whites and have also led to their inclusion in supermarket offerings. Examples include the Purato organic blend, Vinca's 100% Catarratto in aluminum bottles, and the unfiltered amber Biddizza from Adnam's, all highlighting the grape's value and versatility. Winemakers like Nino Barraco in Marsala are also creating distinctive, single-vineyard Catarrattos that exemplify the grape's potential, including limited editions born from unique vintage conditions.