A new find from Sicily:
2024 Alba, Catarratto d'Altura, Radici Normanne
What a bargain.
Simon Larkin
2024 Alba, Catarratto d'Altura, Radici Normanne
£90 per 6 bottle case in bond
I have always been interested in the style and value offered by the wines of Sicily, whether it be reds made from Nerello Mascalese or Nero d’Avola or whites made from Caricante or Catarratto.
There are some wines that just scream great value, that have been produced with a skill and attention to detail that isn’t normally prevalent in wines of an everyday price point.
One of the best whites I have found for a truly outstanding quality to price ratio is without doubt 2024 Alba, Catarratto d'Altura, Radici Normanne
This is the first vintage of this wine made from 100% Catarratto, Sicily’s most well-known white variety, by Radici Normanne, a young Sicilian winery that is focused on high-altitude viticulture. Their vineyards extend to 800 metres above sea level in Valledolmo, on mineral rich soils in the mountains of Sclafani Bagni. In 2024 the altitude protected the vines from stress in a dry year, and the resultant wine reveals fine ripeness of fruit allied to the freshness that comes with altitude, and it comes in at just 12.5% alcohol.
This is a very impressive first release. And a very enjoyable glass of wine.
Please see my note below.
2024 Alba, Catarratto d'Altura, Radici Normanne
£90 per 6 bottle case in bond
With beautiful fresh aromas of white flowers, vibrant citrus fruits and a discreet hint of aromatic herbs, this wine already impresses. The palate continues with a similar profile, beautifully balanced with a ripe, mouthwatering fruit underpinned by a fresh mineral nuance. This is impeccably made with a long, lingering finish. A really appealing style and one to drink now and over the next year. Hard to fault - what a bargain. (SL) Drink: now to 2028
Catarratto may be the most widely planted white grape in Sicily, but rarely do I come across such a convincing example at such a fair price point. As the weather improves, this is the ideal, versatile white to enjoy over leisurely lunches al fresco. Count me in!
Please let us know of your interest.
Simon
simon.larkin@atlasfinewines.com