Aggiara: Catarratto in Its Purest Amphora-Driven Form
Overview
Long relegated to the role of producing bland, high-yield wines, Catarratto has found a new champion in Fabio Ferracane, who focuses on its untapped potential and versatility. The name Catarratto, meaning “waterfall” in Italian, reflects its natural propensity for prolific yields—a trait Fabio intentionally curtails to reveal its true character.
The Aggiara represents Fabio’s amphora-aged expression of Catarratto. Hand-harvested in mid-September, the grapes undergo a 20-day skin maceration in clay amphorae. After pressing, the wine continues to mature in the amphora for another 12 months. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, and unsulfured, Aggiara is a testament to the purity and depth of this varietal.
Style and Aromas
The Aggiara balances a surprisingly taut structure with a generous and warm body. Its Mediterranean aromas evoke bergamot, almonds, and fresh bread dough. The extended maceration adds a delicate tannic frame, giving the wine precision, texture, and remarkable drinkability without losing its inherent elegance.
Technical Sheet
- Grape Variety: Catarratto
- Vineyard: Situated at 160 meters above sea level; predominantly limestone soils.
- Harvest: Handpicked, mid-September.
- Fermentation: Spontaneous with wild yeasts; 20 days of skin contact in amphorae.
- Aging: 12 months in clay amphorae.
- Filtration: None
- SO₂ Content: None (unsulfured)
- Alcohol Content: 12.5% vol.
- Closure: Natural cork
- Serving Temperature: 10–12°C
- Optimal Drinking Window: Now – 2030
- Content and Price per Liter: 0.75 l (€39.37/l)
Sustainability
Fabio’s approach mirrors the commitment of all Vinonudo winemakers: a dedication to organic and natural viticulture, eschewing herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers in favor of compost and biodynamic preparations.
The Aggiara is not just a wine but an experience—highlighting the potential of Catarratto as a varietal and the art of amphora vinification. With its seamless blend of structure, depth, and warm Mediterranean character, it embodies Fabio Ferracane’s vision for Catarratto’s future.
