From: Sicily, Italy
Blend: 60% Grillo 40% Catarratto
Taste: On the nose, this captivating wine reveals a complex bouquet of white flowers, green herbs, and fresh citrus notes. Aromas of green apple, mandarin orange, and lemon zest are complemented by subtle hints of white peach and a touch of almond. On the palate, the wine is bright and refreshing, with a harmonious balance between its zesty acidity and smooth texture. The crisp flavors of green apple, lemon, and mandarin orange are beautifully intertwined with nuances of fresh herbs, such as thyme and basil. The wine's minerality adds depth and complexity, leading to a satisfyingly long finish with a pleasant almond undertone.
Pairing: This gorgeous Bianco's crisp and refreshing profile makes it a versatile option for pairing with a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and citrus notes complement seafood dishes like grilled fish, shrimp scampi, or seared scallops. It can also pair well with lighter poultry dishes, such as lemon-herb roasted chicken or turkey piccata.
To enjoy this wine with a taste of its Sicilian roots, consider pairing it with traditional Sicilian dishes like pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, see recipe below), swordfish involtini, or a caponata, a sweet and sour eggplant dish. The wine's acidity and freshness will enhance the flavors of these regional specialties.
For vegetarian options, the Giato Bianco's crispness and herbal notes make it a great match for vegetable-based dishes. Pair it with a Mediterranean-inspired quinoa salad with olives, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes, a simple pasta primavera, or a zesty citrus and fennel salad. It can also be enjoyed with a light, tangy goat cheese, or a creamy burrata served with fresh tomatoes and basil.
Pasta con le Sarde
Recipe from Gusto
Adapted by Robert Trachtenberg
About. The 2020 Centopassi Giato Sicilia Superiore Bianco is a unique and delicious white wine from the high Belice Corleonese plateau in Western Sicily. This exceptional wine comes from vineyards confiscated from convicted Mafiosi, making it a symbol of renouncing the Mafia's dark influence on Sicily. The Centopassi estate, proudly supported by Libera Terra, is known for its organic farming practices and the use of indigenous grape varieties that highlight the native character of the fruit. The result is a range of high-quality wines, with the Giato Bianco standing out as a refreshingly flavorful option that offers outstanding value for money.
Centopassi's Elevated Vineyards and Distinctive Winemaking
Centopassi's vineyards are located over 500 meters (1800 feet) above sea level, where the cool nights and fresh acidity at harvest contribute to the vibrant, mouthwatering character of their wines. The white wines are fermented with neutral selected yeasts, while indigenous yeasts are used for the reds, allowing the true character of the grapes to shine through.
The 2020 Giato Bianco: A Winning Blend of Grillo and Catarratto
The Giato Bianco is a blend of 60% Grillo and 40% Catarratto, two grape varieties indigenous to Sicily and once used primarily in Marsala production. This bright and flavorful wine has a delightful crispness and offers hints of herbs, apple, and mandarin orange. With its excellent quality and surprising affordability, the Giato Bianco is an ideal choice for everyday enjoyment.
Grillo: A Sicilian White Grape With a Rich History
Grillo, a Sicilian white grape variety, is known for its role in Marsala wines and its refreshing, nutty, fruit-driven flavors. Its origins are debated, with some suggesting it is native to Sicily, while others believe it was brought from Puglia. Grillo is well-suited to Sicily's hot, dry climate, and its recent resurgence as a high-quality varietal has led to the production of light, easy-drinking wines that offer great value.
Catarratto: A High-Yielding White Grape Variety
Catarratto, another native Sicilian grape, was once primarily used in Marsala production. It is one of Italy's most commonly planted grape varieties, making up around 60 percent of Sicily's total vineyard area. Although often used as a lower-quality blending component, dedicated producers have shown that Catarratto can produce good wines with juicy texture and crisp lemon flavors.
Food Pairings for the Giato Bianco
The Giato Bianco's crisp, refreshing profile makes it a versatile pairing option for a variety of dishes. Grillo-based pairings can include macaroni with fresh lemon and cream sauce, lemon chicken, or walnut-rolled goats' cheese with honey. Catarratto's relative neutrality allows it to complement dishes like tuna and caper salad, Hainanese chicken rice, and even spicy options like sautéed prawns with chili.
In Conclusion
The 2020 Centopassi Giato Sicilia Superiore Bianco is not only a delicious and refreshing white wine, but also a powerful symbol of renouncing the Mafia's influence on Sicily. With its exceptional quality and affordability, the Giato Bianco offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a taste of Sicily's vibrant winemaking culture
