Catarratto grape variety

Catarratto is an indigenous white grape from Sicily, Italy. It is one of the most widely cultivated grapes there. Catarratto wines are generally fresh and fruity, with a medium body and good acidity. Typical flavours are citrus fruit, green apple and floral notes, often accompanied by a hint of almond and minerality. They are vinified both as a single variety and in cuvées with other Sicilian grape varieties such as Grillo or Inzolia. Catarratto is also often part of Marsala, the famous Sicilian liqueur wine. It harmonises well with seafood, light grilled starters or summer salads. The full potential of Catarratto has clearly emerged in recent years thanks to the quality-orientation of some producers.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Catarratto wine

What does a typical wine from the Catarratto grape taste like?

Catarratto is a wine with soul. On the nose, you can expect intense notes of citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit), white flowers and often a fine, tart herbal note reminiscent of Mediterranean scrub. A hint of green apple and white peach is also typical.

What structure does Catarratto have in terms of acidity and body?

Compared to many other southern white wines, Catarratto has a refreshing acidity and a surprisingly strong body. It is often full-bodied on the palate and has a slight, very pleasant bitter note on the finish, reminiscent of almonds.

Are there different styles of Catarratto?

Yes, a distinction is often made between Catarratto Bianco Comune and Catarratto Bianco Lucido. While the Comune is often somewhat more rustic and full-bodied, the Lucido is considered the more elegant variant with a finer flavour and more lively freshness.

Where in the world does the Catarratto grape grow best?

Catarratto is a purely Sicilian affair. It is the most widely cultivated white grape variety there, especially in the west of the island, in the provinces of Trapani, Palermo and Agrigento. There it finds the conditions it loves.

Which dishes harmonise perfectly with a Catarratto?

Catarratto is a fabulous accompaniment to food. Its structure pairs perfectly with seafood, grilled fish and typical Sicilian starters such as caponata. It also cuts an excellent figure with pasta with pesto or dishes with white meat and poultry.

How does Catarratto differ from the Grillo grape variety?

These two are the giants of Sicily. While Grillo often has a more exotic aroma (passion fruit, mango) and an almost salty minerality, Catarratto is usually a little more structured, herbaceous and has more "grip" on the palate.

What is the difference between Catarratto and Carricante?

This is where worlds collide: while Catarratto is the king of the west, Carricante dominates on Mount Etna in the east. Carricante has an extremely high acidity and an almost steely minerality, while Catarratto is rounder, full-bodied and more yellow-fruity.

What is the ideal drinking temperature for Catarratto?

Catarratto is best enjoyed well chilled, but not ice cold. A temperature of 8 to 10 degrees Celsius is ideal to bring out both the freshness and the complex herbal flavours.

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You can find information on other grape varieties here.