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Italian Wine Scholar: Central & Southern Italy > Sicilia: Terroir, Grapes > Flashcards

Sicilia: Terroir, Grapes Flashcards

1
Q

Which region is the largest in Italy?

A

Sicilia

It is also the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Its surface area extends about 9,900sq mi/25,700km².

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2
Q

What factors are important to consider regarding viticulture on a region as large as Sicilia?

A

Because of its size, this island has a wide range of conditions:
* topographic
* geologic
* climatic

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3
Q

Where is Sicilia located?

A

This triangle shaped island represents the southernmost region of Italy. It is positioned in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, right in front of the tip of the Italian Boot. The Strait of Messina separates it from Calabria. The island faces the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north and the Ionian Sea to the east. The Canale di Sicilia (Sicilian Channel) separates it from North Africa.

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4
Q

What surrounds the island of Sicilia?

A

Several archipelagos and small islands.
The island of Pantelleria is the largest and is the closest Italian outpost to North Africa.

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5
Q

What percentage of Sicilia is made up of hills/mountains/plains?

A
  • 62% Hills
  • 24% Mountains
  • 14% Plains
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6
Q

Where are the majority of vineyards planted in Sicilia?

A

On hills;
Almost two-thirds of the islands topography comprises hills.

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7
Q

Describe the mountains in Sicilia.

A

Mountain ranges account for almost a quarter of the region.
The peaks of northeast Sicilia form the Sicilian Apennines, which are considered an extenstion of the mainland’s Southern Apennines.

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8
Q

Name the volcanos of Sicilia.

A
  • Etna: on the northeastern coast
  • Vulcano: island in the Aeolian archipelago
  • Stromboli: island in the Aeolian archipelago
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9
Q

What is the volcanic and seismic activity in Sicilia due to?

A

The island’s position between the Africain and Eurasian tectonic plates.

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10
Q

Name the rivers of Sicilia.

A
  • Salso River (Imera Meridionale): flows south from the moutain of Madonie in central Sicilia, emptying into the Canale di Sicilia.
  • Simeto River: flows south-south-east from Monti Nebrodi in eastern Sicilia, emptying into the Ionian Sea.
  • Belice River: flows south and west in western Sicilia, emptying in to the Strait of Sicily
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11
Q

How large is Etna?

A

Mount Etna rises more than 10,000ft/3,000m above the sea and has a basal circumference of approx. 90mi/140km.
It is the highest and largest active volcano in Europe and is Italy’s highest mountain peak south of the Alps.
In 2013, it was included on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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12
Q

What is the climate in Sicilia?

A

A typical Mediterranean climate.
* dry summers
* mild, wet winters
* summer heat moderated by sea breezes/winds (particularly along the coast)
* fungal diseases generally not a threat thanks to dry and breezy conditions

Climate shifts to moderate Mediterranean and even semi-continental conditons in some of the central and elevated areas such as:
* the Sicilian Apennines
* the slopes of Etna
* the province of Enna

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13
Q

Does Sicilia receive snow?

A

Snow is common in winter at elevations above 2953-3281ft/900-1,000m.

The top of Etna can be blanketed in snow until late spring.

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14
Q

What are temperatures like in Sicilia?

A
  • Overall average temperatures are among the highest in Italy (59-64°F/15-18°C).
  • Cooler growing areas are in the northeast.
  • Western and southern areas are affected by the warm, African Sirocco wind which blows from the southeast. These areas experience more intense heat than the rest of the island. Summer temperatures can easily exceed 95°F/35°C and sometimes crest 104°F/40°C.
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15
Q

How is rainfall in Sicilia?

A
  • Large portions of western and southern areas have very low rainfall, on average, between less than 20in/500mm to 23-25in/600-650mm per year. Some of these areas can experience severe periods of drought during the hottest and driest summers and can be classified as semi-arid.
  • rainfall increases with altitude. Most rainfall occurs around the various moutain ranges - in particular the Sicilian Apennines and Etna. Annual average varies from 30-40in/800-1,000mm or more.
  • Rain mostly falls between November and April. Summer is the driest season.
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16
Q

What influences the broad harvesting period in Sicilia?

A

Due to variation in:
* climate
* altitude
* temperatue

Grape harvest can take place as early as July (for white varieties in the western portion) and as late as November (for red grapes in Etna).

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17
Q

What soil types are found in Sicilia?

A
  • Limestone & calcareous-clay soils: in western part and in southeastern corner.
  • Mix of metamorphic & igneous rocks: in northeastern corner.
  • Marine-clay sedimentary soils: in the upper Belice River Valley.
  • Clay, sandstone & marl: in the area stretching from Alcamo to the Madonie mountain range in the northwest.
  • Layers of dark lava, ash & volcanic debris: surrounding Etna
  • Volcanic soils: the volcanic Aeolian Islands & Pantelleria
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18
Q

How is it that old vines growing on their own rootstocks are commonplace surround Etna, on the Aeolian islands and Pantelleria?

A

These areas consist of loose and sandy volcanic soils that phylloxera cannot survive in.

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19
Q

How do the number of plantings for red grapes compare to that of white grapes in Sicilia?

A

White grapes account for more than 60% of the total area under vine.

In western Sicilia, particularly where Marsala is made, there is a concentration of white grapes.
The eastert part of the island is overwhelmingly dominated by red grapes.

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20
Q

How has the grape plantings in Sicilia changed over the past 40 years?

A

From the 1980s until the early 2000s, great importance was given to international grapes in the making of quality wine.

Over the last few years, more and more Sicilian producers have recognized the importance of the island’s indigenous grapes and have begun to focus on them.

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21
Q

What percentage of plantings in Sicilia are made up of native grapes?

A

Almost 80% of the total area under vine are native grapes.

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22
Q

What percentage of plantings in Sicilia are made up of native white varieties?

A

More than 50% of total area under vine.

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23
Q

What is the most widely planted grape variety in Sicilia?

A

Catarratto Bianco

It represents one-third of the total area under vine. But it has fallen out of favour and plantings are declining.

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24
Q

Which white variety has substantially increased in plantings in Sicilia?

A

Grillo

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25
Rank the grape varieties grown in **Sicilia** from most to least widely planted.
1. **Catarratto Bianco** (33%) 2. **Nero d'Avola** (16%) 3. **Grillo** (6%) 4. **Inzolia** (**Ansonica**) (6%) 5. Syrah (5%) 6. Chardonnay (5%) 7. Merlot (4%) 8. Grecanico Dorato (4%) 9. Cabernet Sauvignon (3%) 10. **Nerello Mascalese** (2%) Others (16%)
26
What is the meaning of the name **Catarratto Bianco**?
The name refers to it abundant yields; it is considered the workhorse grape of **Silcilia**.
27
What is the story behind the **Catarratto Bianco** variety?
This variety has been cultivated on **Sicilia** since ancient times. In the past, it was believed there were several distinct Catarratto grapes but DNA profiling has established that all are genetically identical. However, there are 2 main biotypes.
28
Name the 2 main biotypes of the **Catarratto Bianco** variety.
* **Catarratto Bianco Comune** * **Catarratto Bianco Lucido**: considered to be higher quality; it has smaller berries, lower sugar levels and higher acid levels.
29
Where is the stronghold for **Catarratto Bianco**?
Western **Sicilia**.
30
What kinds of wines are produced from the **Catarratto Bianco** grape?
Historically, it was used as the base of **Marsala** production. Today, most are made into a simple and quaffable everyday wine and is often blended with other grapes.
31
What factors in the vineyard assist in **Catarratto Bianco**'s ability to achieve its potential for producing quality wine?
* the right altitude * ideal exposure
32
What is the history of the **Grillo** variety?
There is no mention of it earlier than the late 19th century. This grape suddenly became the principal grape for Marsala production in the first decades of the 20th century. After phylloxera, many farmers replaced Catarratto Bianco with Grillo because it made a better Marsala. This changed in the 2nd half of the 20th century when growers sought more productive grapes. Since the 2000s, Grillo's potential for distinctive dry wines has resulted in increased plantings.
33
DNA analysis has shown that **Grillo** is the result of a natural crossing between which two varieties?
* **Catarratto Bianco** * **Zibibbo** (Muscat of Alexandria)
34
What style of wine was **Grillo** used to make up until the 1980s?
Dry wines that were typically deep in colour, earthy, nutty, astringent and alcoholic with a predisposition for oxidation. These characteristcis were considered ideal for Marsala production, and even today, the best versions are usually **Grillo**-based.
35
How did **Grillo** wines change in the 1990s?
The introduction of temperature-controlled fermentation in the 1990s considerably changed the character of the wines. They now show a cleaner and fresher profile.
36
What are the characteristics of a **Grillo** wine made in the newer style?
Aromas of citrus, aromatic herbs and nuts complement the classic full-bodied, textural and structured character of the wine. It is usually marked by a briny-salty character
37
The combination of cool fermentation and highly reductive winemaking has resulted in what examples of varietal **Grillo**?
A wine reminiscent of Sauvignon Blanc with aromas of fresh-cut grass, grapefruit and passion fruit.
38
What is the meaning behind the name **Grillo**?
In Italian it means "cricket", however the origin of the name does not refer to the insect. The name is taken from "grilli", Sicilian dialect for "pips" or seeds.
39
What is another name for the **Inzolia** grape?
**Ansonica** In **Sicilia** it is called **Inzolia**. The official name in the National Registry is **Ansonica**.
40
Where is the stronghold for the **Inzolia** grape variety?
The western part of **Sicilia**.
41
Historically, what was **Inzolia** used for?
Marsala production
42
How is the **Inzolia** variety used in wine production today?
Mostly for dry wine in various DOCs and IGTs. It is crafted into varietal wine or blended with other white grapes such as Catarratto or Grillo.
43
What is a defining feature of the **Inzolia** grape?
It has moderate acidity; it must be picked early enough to maintain sufficient acidity.
44
What is another name for the Grecanico Dorato grape?
Garganega It was previously thought to be native to Sicilia, but has been identified as a local biotype of Garganega (of Soave fame).
45
What is another name for the **Zibbibo** grape?
* **Moscato di Alessandria** * **Muscat of Alexandria** It is a member of the **Muscat** family.
46
What is the origin of the **Zibbibo** name?
The name is linked to the Middle Ages when **Sicilia** was under Muslim rule. The Arabic word *zabib* means "raisin" or "dried grape." This variety was commonly dried for raisins. The name **Zibbibo** pre-dates the name **Muscat of Alexandria**.
47
What are the characteristics of the **Zibbibo** grape?
The cluster is big with large, sweet berries delicious to eat raw. Its thick and crunchy skin makes the variety suitable for air-drying under the sun.
48
Where are **Zibbibo** plantings largely concentrated?
On the volcanic island of **Pantelleria** where the grapes are used to produce sweet and *passito* wines.
49
Recent DNA analysis suggests that **Zibbibo** could be a natural cross between which two varieties?
* **Moscato Bianco** (Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains) * **Axina de Tres Bias**: an obscure table grape of **Sardegna**
50
Where is the historic home of the **Carricante** grape?
This native, high-quality grape of **Sicilia** belong to the volcanic slopes of **Etna**. It is almost exclusively grown here.
51
What is the elevation of **Carricante** plantings around **Etna**?
Between 3,000-3,900ft/900-1,200m.
52
What is a defining feature of the **Carricante** grape?
Its notably high level of malic acid.
53
How have growers in **Etna** learned to handle the harsh acidity of the **Carricante** grape variety?
* harvesting as late as possible to lower the varietal's acid levels * keeping the wine on its lees in barrels until the following spring, promoting the onset of malolactic fermentation which softens the wine's sharp acidity.
54
What are the characteristics of **Carricante** wines?
The best examples show refined aromas of orange blossom, citrus, apple, anise and honey combined with intense minerality, racy acidity and moderate alcohol. They age well, developing flinty and petrol notes.
55
Where is **Sicilia** is **Malvasia di Lipari** grown?
On the volcanic archipelago of the **Aeolian Islands**. Lipari is the largest of this group of islands.
56
What wine is produced from the **Malvasia di Lipari** grape in the **Aeolian Islands**?
The prized and complex *passito* **Malvasia delle Lipari DOC**.
57
Recent DNA studies have shown that **Malvasia di Lipari** is genetically identical to which varieties?
* **Malvasia di Sardegna** * **Calabria**'s **Greco Bianco**
58
Name the native and traditional red varieties of **Sicilia**.
* **Nero d'Avola** (Calabrese) * **Nerello Mascalese** * Nerello Cappuccio * **Frappato** * Perricone Others: * Nocera * Corinto Nero * Sangiovese * Alicante Boushet * Ciliegiolo * Acitana
59
Name the predominant red grape for most of **Sicilia**'s appellations.
**Nero d'Avola**
60
What name was **Nero d'Avola** historically known as?
**Calabrese**, an Italianization of the Sicilian dialect word "*Calavrisi*," that makes reference to the origin of the grape, the coastal town of *Avola* in **Sicilia**'s southeastern corner. Officially, the grape is listed in the National Registry of Grapes as **Calabrese**, but it is most commonly known today as **Nero d'Avola**.
61
What vine training method is often used for **Nero d'Avola**?
**Alberello** This variety requires warm growing conditions to perform well and is often trained close to the ground.
62
What are the characteristics of **Nero d'Avola** wines?
Deep intensity of colour, fine smooth tannins, soft textures, full body and typically high alcohol - all balanced by fresh acidity. Aromas and flavours include red and dark fruit (cherry, plum and blackberry) and Mediterranean brush and herbs. This grape has an affinity for barrel maturation and the best examples have aging potential.
63
Name the noble, red grape variety native to **Etna**.
**Nerello Mascalese**
64
Where is the name **Nerello Mascalese** derived from?
From "*nero*" (black) and the town *Mascali*, located in the eastern foothills of **Etna**. The grape is almost exclusive to the slopes of Etna and excels here.
65
What are the characteristics of the **Nerello Mascalese** grape?
* late-ripening * expresses the nuances of individual sites
66
What are the characteristics of **Nerello Mascalese** wines?
Pale to medium intensity of colour and boast complex and refined aromas of red fruit, aromatic herbs, spices and mineral. There is perceptible yet smooth tannin, high alcohol and lively acidity. Although the wines can be enjoyed young, they age well.
67
Which grapes is **Nerello Mascalese** often compared to?
The elegance and range of nuabnces expressed by this grape variety often draws comparisons to: * **Nebbiolo** * **Pinot Noir**
68
What is the other prinicipal red grape of **Etna**, other than **Nerello Mascalese**?
Nerello Cappucio It is considered less distinctive than the more famous **Nerello Mascalese** and is less widely planted.
69
What is the role of Nerello Cappucio in **Etna** wines?
This variety plays a secondary role. It is often used in small amounts to soften and add colour. It is common to find this and **Nerello Mascalese** co-planted in **Etna**'s oldest vineyards. A handful of producers make varietal versions of this.
70
Which traditional variety is historically grown around the town of *Vittoria* in southeast **Sicilia**?
**Frappato**
71
How are **Frappato** grapes used in wine production in **Sicilia**?
This grape was and still is traditionally blended with other red grapes. Now, more producers are making attractive varietal wines.
72
What are the characteristics of varietal **Frappato** wines?
Perfumed, lively, fresh, and juicy, and are generally light in body and gently tannic.
73
What is the story behind the Perricone grape variety?
This ancient variety is of unknown origin and was widely planted in **Sicilia** before the outbreak of phylloxera. This grape has earned a few champions who have protected it from extinction.
74
What is the role of Perricone in wines from **Sicilia**?
It is mostly used as a minor blending component (often with **Nero d'Avola**) to impart tannin and a textured mouthfeel.
75
When were international grapes introduced to **Sicilia**?
Mostly in the 1980s via experimental plantings conducted by the IRVV. During the 1990s and early 2000s, they were rapidly adopted by most Sicilian producers for both quality and bulk wine production.
76
Which international grape varieties have gained significant ground in **Sicilia**?
* Syrah: most widely planted international grape on island & 2nd most widely red grape overall; mostly planted in western Sicilia. * Chardonnay: became popular following the international wave of success of the varietal in the late 1980s; 2nd most widely planted international variety. * Merlot * Cabernet Sauvignon
77
How much do international grapes account for of the total area under vine in **Sicilia**?
More than 20%
78
Name the producers who made Sicilian varietal Chardonnays popular in the late1980s.
* Tasca d'Almerita * Planeta
79
What vine training systems are used in **Sicilia**?
Historically the most common was the ancient *alberello* method. In the 1950s winegrowers began to transition to more productive and less labor-intensive systems such as the high-yielding *tendone*. In the late 20th century, there was an introduction of the vertical, wire-trained systems such as *Guyot* and Cordone Speronato. These account for 80% of the islands vineyard training systems.
80
What is the benefit of the *Alberello* training system in **Sicilia**?
This system is ideal for the hot, sunny and dry conditions typical to many parts of the island. It results in low yields and grapes high in sugar and extract, resulting in high-alcohol wines with concentrated flavour. These characteristics were required for the production of **Marsala** and the bulk wine for which this island was known.
81
Which Italian wine region has the largest area under vine?
**Sicilia** More than 250,000ac/100,000ha. Most of the vineyard land is concentrated in the western part of the island.
82
How much total wine is produced in **Sicilia** annually?
An average of 132m gal/5m hl per year; roughly 12% of Italy's total wine production **Sicilia** ranks 3rd or 4th (depending on the year) in terms of total wine produced.
83
How much of the wine produced in **Sicilia** is white wine?
Almost 60%; but red and *rosato* are steadily increasing.
84
What percentage of wine from **Sicilia** is DOC/G, IGT and bulk wine?
* > 20% **DOC/G** * ~40% **IGT** * < 40% bulk wine & fresh grape must & rectified concentrated grape must (RCGM) Traditionally, DOC/G wine production was very low (below 5%), but there has been a substantial increase in recent years. This region is one of the largest producers of fresh grape must and RCGM (used for wine enrichment).
85
How can the drastic increase of **DOC/G** wines in **Sicilia** be explained?
* revived importance of native grapes * recognition that several **DOC/G** appellations have acquired in recent years * upgrade of the **Sicilia IGT** to **DOC** status
86
Name the IGT that most IGT wines are currently released under.
The regional Terre Siciliane IGT (introduced in 2011 to replace the Sicilia IGT). IGT wines are predicted to decline in the near future due to the rising importance of the flexible, regional Sicilia DOC.

Italian Wine Scholar: Central & Southern Italy (29 decks)

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