Lucido Catarratto Terre Siciliane IGT 2024

Wine Description for Lucido Catarratto Terre Siciliane IGT 2024 by Marco de Bartoli

Colour & Appearance

Radiant golden yellow in the glass – a luminous Sicilian that already promises sunshine and warmth on the eye.

Nose

Fascinatingly multi-layered and unusually complex for a simple IGT: fennel, sage and anise dominate the Mediterranean herbal spice, whilst liquorice adds further complexity. Beneath this shimmer sweet fruit notes of pear, candied grapefruit and apple compote. Distinctive stony minerality and subtle smoky notes lend the wine surprising depth.

Palate

Refreshing and charming in equal measure – a balancing act that succeeds. The subtle residual sweetness never feels intrusive, rather it underscores the floral notes that blossom on the palate. The vibrant acidity carries the wine effortlessly, whilst the mineral structure scores with a fine, appetite-stimulating bitter note on the finish. At just 12.5% alcohol, it remains elegant and eminently drinkable.

Finish

Medium length with lingering minerality and that appealing bitter note that invites the next sip. The herbal spice fades subtly.

Terroir & Origin

The Catarratto grapes come from 15-year-old vines in the Trapani region of western Sicily. The sandy loam soils shape the mineral character and lend the wine its characteristic salinity and freshness.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Hand-harvested Catarratto grapes, picked in early September and gently pressed. Spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts at controlled temperature, seven months of ageing on lees in stainless steel – minimal sulphur addition. This patient, natural vinification explains the aromatic complexity and texture.

Food Pairing Suggestions

An ideal companion to grilled fish, calamari, spaghetti alle vongole or fennel risotto. Also an exciting match with aged Pecorino or goat’s cheese. The herbal spice harmonises perfectly with Mediterranean-spiced vegetable dishes.

Special Features

Marco de Bartoli proves once again that Sicilian white wines are capable of far more than being crude fruit bombs. This Lucido is an authentic, characterful terroir wine at a fair price – honest, unadorned and full of personality.