Cantina Rallo

Alcamo is one of the oldest and best-known white wine-growing regions in western Sicily. In the hinterland of the province of Trapani, on gentle hills between 150 and 300 metres, Catarratto grows here – the indigenous grape variety that has characterised the white face of this landscape for centuries. The Patti Piccolo estate, home to the Rallo vineyards, is located in this heartland: organically farmed, wind-cooled and influenced by the sea air of the Tyrrhenian Sea. 80% Catarratto, supplemented by 20% other indigenous white grape varieties. Hand-picked at the end of August to the beginning of September, gentle pressing, fermentation in steel at 15 to 16 °C, 6 months in steel, short bottle ageing. Fresh, aromatic, for every day.

Nero d'Avola is the noblest red grape variety in Sicily – deep ruby red, full of character, with a warmth that breathes the island. The fact that Cantine Rallo calls its red wine Il Principe is no exaggeration: it is a tribute to the heritage of Sicilian wine culture and to the grape variety that gives it its backbone. 80% Nero d'Avola, supplemented by 20% other autochthonous red varieties, harvested by hand at the end of September to the beginning of October on the sandy soils of Patti Piccolo in Alcamo.

A hint of morning freshness: Al Qasar is the lighter side of Zibibbo, dry, elegant and designed for subtlety. Yellow in colour with a delicate golden shimmer in the glass. The nose opens with charming aromas of orange blossom, peach skin and a hint of elderflower. On the palate, it is clear and fragrant, with lively acidity, a creamy fruit centre and a floral finish that ends in svelteharmony. Al Qasar is an uncomplicated, yet characterful Zibibbo – ideal as an aperitif, with light antipasti or a fine fritto di mare. Elegant, dry and extremely charming. SUPERIORE.DE

The great white heron spends the winter in the Riserva dello Stagnone near Marsala, the tranquil nature reserve of lagoon, salt pans and wide open skies where the vineyards of Cantine Rallo are rooted. The white colour of the bottle label is reminiscent of the Marsala salt pans, the yellow of the Sicilian sun. The bird gave the wine its name. 100% Grillo, the autochthonous grape variety of western Sicily, traditionally grown in the Alberello marsalese – the bushy training system that gives the vines shade and balance in the summer heat. South-facing, at an altitude of 50 metres, loamy-sandy soil near the coast. Hand-picked in September, gentle pressing, fermentation in steel at 15 to 16 °C, no malolactic fermentation, 6 months in steel, short bottle ageing.

Brilliant ruby red in the glass with a purple shimmer – youthful and inviting. The aroma combines ripe blackberries, black cherries, a hint of violets and subtle peppery spice, typical of the Mediterranean Syrah style. On the palate, La Clarissa is supple and juicy, with ripe fruit, soft tannins and a fresh acidity. Ageing in stainless steel tanks preserves precision and varietal character. An uncomplicated but well-made Syrah for every day – with Sicilian soul and Mediterranean flavour. Perfect with pasta al ragù, grilled vegetables or simply chilled for a cosy evening on the terrace. SUPERIORE.DE

A Catarratto with character: Beleda comes from organically farmed vineyards near Alcamo, where cool nights and the proximity to the sea give the wine freshness and flavour. The wine is matured for around eight months in stainless steel tanks, with a few months resting on the fine lees – for structure, subtle fullness and elegance. Pale straw yellow in the glass with a silvery-green sheen. The nose opens with white flowers, citrus fruit, green apple and a fine salty note. On the palate, the vintage is lively, balanced and has a pleasantly juicy texture. The fruit remains subtle, the minerality dominates – a Sicilian white wine with a clear style and refreshing drinkability. Ideal with seafood, grilled vegetables or young/medium-aged sheep's milk cheeses. SUPERIORE.DE