Aldo Viola “Shiva” Catarratto IGT (2017) – Sicilia

£69.00

THE GRAPE 
Cataratto. 


THE WINE
Aldo Viola has created something truly divine here. A macerated Cataratto that is elegant as much as it is intoxicating. Named after the Hindu God, Shiva, it is only made in exceptional vintages and is crafted from the oldest of Viola’s Cataratto vines.

The method deployed here is a surprising one. After a late harvest maceration takes place for a few weeks, with 30% of the grapes subsequently being dried out before fermentation. After this, the wine is aged in oak barrels for one year. This combination methods creates a wine that surprises and tantalises in equal measure.

The deep amber hue in the glass is punctuated by brilliant orange reflections. This visual depth translates through to the bouquet: honey, saffron perhaps even a hint of stock. A beautiful play of salinity and minerality. As this opens up in the glass the play of flavours expands, bitter orange contrasts with burnt sugar. Intensity exemplified. Add in some more spices for good measure and this truly is a nectar of the gods.

THE FOOD PAIRING
Try pairing this with fish dishes such as grilled sea bass or Pasta con le Sarde (linguine with sardines, anchovies and saffron) for something that really elevates the senses.


But for the curious:  
The rugged terroir surrounding Alcamo in North-West Sicily is where Aldo Viola calls home. A lifelong home for he grew up in this area assisting his father in the cultivation of the family vineyard. He works with Cataratto, Grillo and Grecanico in this area (closer to the sea he farms red varieties) but we would argue that Cataratto is his preferred variety. And with good reason: the Shiva shows how he can extract entirely surprising characteristics from this grape.