Grillo

• Dry wines

  Grillo grapes can be vinified in purity or in blend, and can make still or sparkling wines. Such wines are characterised by heterogeneous aromas. They are soft and warm in the mouth, a great companion for all fish preparations.

• Fortified wines

  Grillo plays a key role in the Marsala Oro and Ambra blends, creating rich and complex fortified wines with a centuries-old tradition that can be dry, semi-dry,sweet and has a good longevity.

• Passito wines

  The best example is probably the Sambuca di Sicilia Passito, from the province of Agrigento, produced from a blend of Ansonica and Grillo. The passito versions show intense aromas of dried fruit and a warm and sweet taste.

It is said that Grillo originated in Puglia, and was brought to Sicily after the invasion of phylloxera, an insect that destroys grapevines by ruining their roots. Initially present in the Marsala area, Grillo grapes quickly spread all over the island, thanks to their suitability to the hot Sicilian climate. Recent studies have shown that this vine fruit is likely to have resulted from a blend between Catarratto and Zibibbo.

For decades, Grillo had a poor reputation as a blending wine, but today the picture is radically different and this grape variety is experiencing a new popularity. This has been favoured by modern winemaking techniques, that allow the wine to maintain the fragrance and cleanliness of its fruit, without the alcohol excesses related to over-ripening.

Dive into a glass of Grillo and you're immediately whisked away to a sensory soiree. The forefront is dominated by the refreshing notes of melon, offering a juicy sweetness that feels both ripe and inviting.

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  Melon

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  Orange Blossom

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  Citrusy Fruit

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  Green Tea

This is soon complemented by the delicate, fragrant whispers of orange blossom, evoking the allure of Sicilian orchards in full bloom. As the melody continues, lively hits of citrusy fruit bring a zesty kick, reminiscent of sun-kissed lemons and oranges, ensuring your palate is awake and intrigued. To round off this taste adventure, subtle undertones of green tea emerge, providing a gentle bitterness and an earthy depth, akin to a cool breeze after a warm Mediterranean day. Grillo's ensemble of flavours dances harmoniously, promising a taste experience that's both refreshing and profound.

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  Serving temperature

  10-12°C

Grillo wines excel at a serving temperature of 10-12°C. This slightly chilled temperature range helps to maintain the aromatic freshness and crispness of the wine, making it more enjoyable. It's cool enough to refresh but not so cold as to suppress the delicate aromas and flavors that Grillo is known for.

• 

  Glass type

  Chardonnay Glass

A Chardonnay glass, with its wider bowl, is ideal for serving Grillo. This type of glass allows the wine to breathe and fully express its bouquet, which can include notes of citrus, herbs, and floral undertones. The shape also ensures that the wine is directed to the center of the tongue, balancing the fruit acidity and bringing out the full range of flavors.

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  Suggested time in Decanter

  Not needed

Decanting is generally not needed for Grillo. This wine is appreciated for its youthful and vibrant qualities, which are best experienced without the aeration that decanting provides. Enjoying Grillo in its purest and freshest form allows you to savor the characteristics that define this varietal.

• 

  Lasting period once open

  3-5 days

After opening, a bottle of Grillo can remain enjoyable for 3-5 days if properly re-sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. This longevity is due to its sturdy structure and acidity levels. However, for the best taste experience, it's recommended to consume it within a couple of days.

• 

  Storing time in the cellar

  Up to 5 years

While Grillo is often enjoyed young, it has the potential to age gracefully for up to 5 years in the cellar. This aging potential allows the wine's complexity to develop further, often leading to a deeper and more nuanced flavor profile. It's important to store the bottles in a controlled environment, away from light and at a consistent temperature to ensure optimal aging.

By considering these handling tips, enthusiasts of Grillo wines in the UK and beyond can maximize their enjoyment of this unique and flavorful wine. Whether enjoying a glass on a warm evening or pairing it with a favorite dish, understanding the nuances of serving, storing, and enjoying Grillo can greatly enhance the overall experience.

Offering a delightful balance of freshness and complexity, it has found a niche amongst UK wine enthusiasts seeking something a tad different.

• Price Averages in the UK

  Grillo wines are typically a great bang for your buck. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £8 to £20 for a decent bottle, though some premium selections may reach a slightly higher bracket.

• Pasta Pairing

  Grillo's zesty undertones make it a splendid companion for pasta dishes, especially those featuring seafood or zesty lemon and herb sauces. A classic spaghetti alle vongole or a linguine al limone would be a match made in heaven.

• Risotto & Rice Pairing

  Risotto with saffron or a fresh spring vegetable risotto will harmonise well with Grillo's nuanced flavour profile.

• Meat Pairing

  Lean white meats, such as chicken or turkey, cooked with Mediterranean herbs are a safe bet. Think of dishes like rosemary roasted chicken.

• Fish Pairing

  Grillo and seafood are an age-old pairing. Opt for grilled fish, especially sea bass or seabream, to complement its crisp and minerally notes.

• Cheese Pairing

  Soft to medium cheeses, especially those with a bit of tang like feta or a fresh goat cheese, accentuate Grillo's unique flavour palette.

• Top 3 Cuisines

  Given its Mediterranean roots, Grillo naturally pairs well with Italian fare. However, it's also an excellent choice with Spanish tapas or even some Greek mezze dishes, given the shared emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavours.

Incorporating Grillo into your wine rotation promises a delightful culinary journey, with pairings that cater to a variety of palates and dishes.

Literally translated as ‘cricket’, Grillo is a Sicilian white wine with great potential, an intense tie with its land and an increasing popularity among consumers all over the world.