Cataratto is a productive white grape variety from Sicily which takes its name from the Italian word cataratte, cataracts or water-falls, referring to to the waterfall-like high yields this grape was historically known for (Italian Wine Unplugged: 2017, p.39)

Cataratto is Italy’s second most common white variety. In fact is a rather sizeable group of similarly named “cataratto” varieties that are considered to be a set of biotypes, but because they are often interplanted, it has been tough to determine if there are in fact distinct varieties. Although there are two separate entries in the National Registry—Cataratto Bianco Comune and Cataratto Bianco Lucido, they are currently considered to be biotypes rather than distinct grapes. However, there are those that believe they should remain separate as they show different enough morphological, behavioral, and enological traits.

Experts posit that Lucido is responsible for the most refined wines while Comune leans more toward higher sugar and lower acid. Recent DNA analysis confirmed that Grillo is a natural crossing of Cataratto Bianco Lucido and Moscato di Alessandria. The Cataratto Biancos are also shown to be o”spring of Garganega, widening Garganega’s family circle even more. Regarding the origin of the name, for Cataratto, see in the vineyard (below); Lucido refers to the clear or almost “polished” look of the berry in the absence of bloom.

Associated regions and DOPs: Sicily: Alcamo DOC. | Contea di Sclafani DOC. | Contessa Entellina DOC. | Marsala DOC. | Menfi DOC. | Monreale DOC. |  Sicilia DOC.

In the vineyard: If planted on hillsides, acidity can be maintained while helping to develop more intense aromas and flavours.

Wine style: Usually now dry, still, whites, but can also show up in the blend of Sicily’s fortified Marsala. Often show tropical citrus, pineapple and banana peel notes, with conversely herbal ones like thyme and sage.