Carricante

Tracing its roots back to the ancient soils of Sicily, Carricante is a grape variety steeped in history and tradition. Its tale is as old as the island itself, often speculated to have Greek origins, brought to Italy during the Greco-colonial era around the 8th century BC. Quickly adapting to the unique Sicilian terroir, Carricante emerged as an indigenous grape, distinguishing itself from other varietals. By the 18th century, Italian ampelographers were already documenting its widespread cultivation, especially in the province of Catania.

Over the years, the grape found its stronghold on the slopes of Mount Etna. Its cultivation persisted through the ages, becoming the most grown white grape in Catania until the mid-20th century. Although its popularity waned for a period, the turn of the 21st century saw a resurgence. Forward-thinking winemakers recognised Carricante's untapped potential, leading to a revival of sorts.

When it comes to grape flavours that enchant the senses, Carricante truly stands out. Originating from the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, this grape variety offers a complex blend of aromatic notes.

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  Orange Blossom

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  Apple Blossom

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  Citrusy Fruit

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  Apple

Think zagara (orange blossom), fresh white fruits, and a delightful hint of citrus. Now, imagine these flavours mingling with the subtlety of anise—a combination not unlike enjoying a Pimm's on a sun-drenched British afternoon. What truly elevates Carricante, however, is its striking minerality and crisp acidity, echoing the freshness of a sea breeze one might experience holidaying in Cornwall.

Its robust profile offers the sort of versatility and depth that would complement a range of traditional British dishes, from Cornish crab to a classic Sunday roast. So, if you're seeking a wine that captivates the palate while being exceedingly food-friendly, Carricante should definitely be on your radar.

When it comes to savouring a glass of Carricante, a bit of finesse goes a long way to make your Sicilian wine experience authentically delightful. For starters, serving temperature matters a great deal. Aim for a crisp 8-10°C to unlock the grape's unique blend of floral and citrus notes.

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  Serving temperature:

  10-13°C
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  Glass type:

  Riesling glass
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  Suggested time in Decanter:

  Not Needed
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  Lasting period once open:

  3-5 days
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  Storing time in cellar:

  Up to 4 Years

Now, for the great debate: Riesling glass or standard white wine glass? While a Riesling glass is said to amplify the wine's aromatic nuances, a standard white wine glass works excellently to enjoy its minerality.

As for those moments when you fancy just a glass or two and want to save the rest for another Sunday roast, worry not. Once opened, a bottle of Carricante can last up to 3-5 days when properly re-corked and stored in the fridge.

If you're storing a few bottles in the cellar, the wine's substantial acidity and structure allow it to age gracefully, making it a lovely companion for your next summer garden party or perhaps even a future Christmas dinner, maturing well for up to 2-4 years.

Carricante is rather finicky when it comes to climate, showing a clear preference for temperate conditions peppered with noticeable temperature variations. In its native Sicily, the grape thrives on the slopes of Mount Etna, where the climate is moderated by altitude and sea breezes.

The Etna region is renowned for its significant day-to-night temperature swings, a feature that allows the Carricante grape to develop a complex aromatic profile. Think of it as the grape variety's own Goldilocks condition – not too hot, not too cold, just right for crafting wines with distinctive minerality and refreshing acidity. Now, if you're accustomed to the milder climates of the British Isles, and perhaps even a fan of our own British-grown Bacchus grape, the Carricante offers a deliciously different, yet equally climate-sensitive, option for your wine repertoire.