Tasting Notes
Grillo is a Sicilian grape variety well suited to the heat of the island. Previously used only in fortified Marsala wine, it is now being seen increasingly in still dry white wines like this one. The family-run winery, Caruso & Minini, is certified organic and has been producing wine for four generations
Though this is crisp and light, I classify this wine as Aromatic because of its Grillo-typical aromas & flavours - apple, lemon with nuttiness & a hint of orange - and because of its medium body which is largely a result of ageing the wine on its lees. Fermentation was in oak and acacia vats - but these are huge barrels so the oak influence is mild. Fundamentally it's a crisp, fresh wine thanks to a very well-balanced level of acidity with complexity of flavours. For such quality and for an organic wine, this is really great value - and very drinkable!
Food Pairing
This makes for a lovely aperitif and is recommended for eating with fish, seafood, chicken, asparagus, pesto- or lemon-flavoured dishes. The body of the wine means that it can handle well fairly rich dishes but nothing too spicy. The producer says "The most refined fish and vegetable-based pastas are the perfect match for this wine. The hallmark dish to paired with grillo is grilled swordfish. Quite surprising how it can wedge itself in among the flavours of the Sicilian cuisine."
Producer's Notes
"Grillo vines are the flagship of our varieties. For this wine we have chosen the highest hill in order to exalt its freshness and flavour. We put it into tonneaux to trap its body giving it a delicate note of oak and acacia. Such good care for a wine symbol of western Sicily. Intensity and elegance are the perfect mix of this wine. Wide bouquet with a natural delicacy."
Awards
92 points Best Italian Wines by Luca Maroni
