Grillo

Grape variety	Grillo
Synonyms	Rossese Bianco, Riddu, and Ariddu.
Grape colour	White grape
History	The Grillo grape, also known as Rossese Bianco, Riddu, and Ariddu, traces its history back to the 19th Century in Sicily. This grape variety is believed to be a cross between Catarratto and Muscat of Alexandria, two well-established grape varieties in the region. Some theories suggest its origins in the southern Italian region of Puglia, but this is debatable. Legend has it that this grape variety was used in the production of Mamertino, a Roman wine highly favored by Julius Caesar. Despite its rich history, the Grillo grape gained significant recognition only in the last few decades when winemakers started producing pure Grillo wines, showcasing its unique characteristics and versatility.
Ampelographic features	The Grillo grape exhibits distinctive ampelographic features. The leaves are medium-sized, rounded pentagonal, sometimes almost spherical. The leaf surface is intense green, glossy, and glabrous on the top, while the bottom is light green with rare hair along the primary ribs. The grape bunches are medium-sized, cylindrical or conical, usually simple, sometimes winged, and moderately compact. The berries are medium to large, spheroidal, with a golden yellow skin that is thick and consistent. The flavor of the pulp is sweet and simple with a transparent, colorless juice. The grape has a persistent and dotted navel, adding to its unique characteristics.
Characteristics of the wine	Grillo wine is known for its distinct straw-yellow color and impressive aromatic profile. It offers a unique olfactory experience with hints of herbs, particularly nettle, complemented by floral notes of jasmine and undertones of citrus peel. On the palate, Grillo wine is robust, often exhibiting a high alcohol content and a characteristic salty note. Despite its good acidity, the wine is remarkably soft, creating a well-structured but balanced wine. The dry wines produced from the Grillo grape are typically astringent, with some exhibiting mineral scents.