Sergio Drago, Catarratto 2021

A radiant take on Catarratto, a grape native to Sicily. Catarratto, “a never predictable or banal grape known for its aromatic charms” in the words of winemaker Sergio Drago, yields here a delicate wine of incredible drinkability.  It is aged for 6 months sur lie and bottled with less than 40mg of SO2, well under the unofficial 50mg to classify this a natural wine. It drinks a little Chardonnayesque, great depth and complexity and super clean minerality. It also works best with a slight chill and when left to come around to room temperature, really opens up. Citrus and herb notes dominate with the finish throwing up a little chalk and right amount of acid. Baked fruit and nutty aromatics accompanied by nice soft honey tones. Much fresher on the palate, with flavors of lemon curd and basil. A hearty wine that’s nicely tempered by the acidity and remains fresh.