Grillo, (pronounced gree-lo) also known as Riddu, is a white wine grape variety which withstands high temperatures and is widely used in Sicilian wine-making and, in particular, for Marsala. Grillo is crisp and light in texture, with moderate acidity and notable sweetness.The vineyards are located in Western Sicily, in the Salemi area at about 40kms from Marsala. They are planted east facing following the vertical trellis system on sandy and clay rich soil, using guyot pruning. At an altitude of around 500 meters above sea level, they are about 15 years old.Uriel, the archangel of repentance. Uriel played a very important role in ancient texts as the rescuer of Jesus’ cousin John the Baptist from the Massacre of the Innocents ordered by King Herod. The translation of Uriel is ‘God of Light.’ Uriel was the angel who checked each of the doors during the Passover in order to ensure safety for God’s people. Grillo is a very resilient grape and one that withstands a lot of heat and wind on Sicily. It is probably best known as the foundation for Marsala but in its ‘dry’ form has many interesting characteristics. It is the most important white grape on Sicily and therefore the ‘principal light.’Light straw yellow in color, it has a rich bouquet of tropical fruit with notes of apricots and peaches. It is full and round on the palate with a lovely balancing acidity and a long perfumed finish. (FYI this is the winery’s talking points for the wine)
- Region: Sicily IGT
- Varietal: 100% Grillo
- Vintage: 2012
- Vine Age: 16 years old
- Yield: 4.1 tons/acre
- Soil Type: Alluvial with Sand & Limestone
- Oak: None – Stainless Steel
- Production: 1,200 cases
