Vitese Grillo, Colomba Bianca, Sicilia

Producer Note

Established in 1970, Colomba Bianca is the largest Sicilian grower cooperative and the biggest Italian producer of organic wine, with more than 1,800 hectares dedicated to organically farmed vines. Colomba Bianca also has a further 7,500 hectares of vineyard, growing indigenous and international varieties. Despite their size, they engage a philosophy of micro-viticulture and micro-winemaking to ensure the ultimate precision, quality and expression of terroir. The stunning range of single variety and innovative blends are tailor made under the watchful eye of head winemaker Mattia Filippi. Dynamic and passionate, the Cantine is constantly evolving with investments in the vineyards and in the technology of their five specialist wineries. With their sights firmly fixed on the future of Sicilian wine, Colomba Bianca is rapidly becoming one of the leading names in organic winemaking in Italy.

Vineyard

Grillo is famous for its role in the production of Marsala wines, but has recently come into its own as a varietal making light, fresh and citrussy wines. Here in these sun-drenched vineyards, the highest standards are attained through the use of innovative technology and the careful process of mapping the terroir according to the weather patterns, harvesting time, soils and vine age. The grapes undergo a sensory analysis and are manually harvested at the optimum maturity levels, according to the terroir and microclimate of the vineyard. Once picked, they are transferred into 20 kilogram containers, to prevent the grapes from being prematurely crushed. The vineyards are made up of distinct soil and climate conditions and range from sea-level up to 700 metres above sea level, imparting subtle complexity into the wine.

Winemaking

The grapes were hand-picked at their optimum maturity and then vinified in small stainless steel tanks to retain the freshness and purity of fruit. A soft pressing of the must took place at 12°C for 24 hours, followed by fermentation at 16°C with selected yeasts. The wine rested in tank for four months, preserving the aromatic characteristics, prior to its release.

Tasting Note

Grillo is the flagship of Sicily's indigenous white varieties, with its aromatic and floral nose. Fresh and harmonious, with ripe melon and green apple flavours, a well structured palate, the Vitese Grillo has a long and elegant finish.

Serving Suggestion

Wonderful served with fish based pasta dishes, delicate risottos or slow roasted lemon chicken.

Grape

Grillo 100%