What are the best Sicilian white wines?
Sicily, with its rich wine-making history, offers an extraordinary variety of white wines that express the diversity of its territory and the creativity of its producers. Among the traditional whites, Grillo is particularly loved for its freshness and citrus notes. This grape variety is increasingly vinified on its own (in the past it was mainly used for Marsala). Inzolia, one of the oldest Sicilian grape varieties, produces dry wines with notes of almond and white flowers and is often used in blends. Catarratto, one of the most widespread grape varieties, offers aromas of flowers and tropical fruit and is available in the Comune and Lucido variants. Carricante, grown on Mount Etna, produces wines with marked acidity and longevity, characterized by citrus, green apple, and pronounced minerality. Among the new varieties, dry Zibibbo is worth mentioning. Traditionally a sweet grape variety, Zibibbo is increasingly being vinified dry. In this version, it offers intense aromas of orange blossom and peach and a pleasant freshness on the palate.
The main appellations
The quality of Sicilian white wines is reflected in the main appellations of origin. The DOC Sicilia includes a wide range of native grape varieties such as Grillo, Inzolia, Catarratto, and Grecanico, which produce fresh and aromatic wines. The DOC Etna, famous for its whites made mainly from Carricante, offers mineral wines with notes of citrus and white flowers thanks to the volcanic soil. The DOC Alcamo, in the west of the island, is known for its fresh and fruity wines made from Catarratto, Inzolia, and Grecanico. The DOC Menfi, on the southwestern coast, combines freshness and structure by blending an international variety such as Chardonnay with the native Grillo. Finally, the DOC Erice, in the northwest, offers complex and mineral whites from Grillo, Catarratto, and Chardonnay.
The ideal pairings
Sicilian white wines are very versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes thanks to their freshness and complexity. Grillo and Inzolia are ideal with seafood, grilled fish, and summer salads. Etna wines made from Carricante, with their acidity and minerality, pair well with shellfish, sushi, and vegetable dishes. Catarratto pairs perfectly with pasta dishes with light sauces and fresh cheeses. And dry Zibibbo? Its intense aromas of peach and orange blossom pair well with spicy dishes, especially Asian cuisine.
