Background
Established in 1875 by Vito Curatolo Arini, the winery is now run by the fifth generation of Curatolos, making it the oldest family-owned Marsala producing business. The family are launching a new range of wines under the Curatolo Arini label, showcasing the best of what they think native Sicilian varieties can offer.
The Coralto wines - a Grillo, Inzolia and Nero d’Avola - are modern and fruit-driven. They have superb definition and varietal character. Taking the family name, the ‘Curatolo Arini’ label comprises a single vineyard Zibibbo, which is dry and aromatic in style, and a Nero d’Avola. Both wines are perfect for enjoying with food. Alberto Antonini’s influence is evident in the wines - the whites are delicious and combine the richness that Sicily can easily provide with the freshness that only someone with Alberto’s experience can retain.
The Grillo, Inzolia and Zibibbo are grown in vineyards in the western part of Sicily, just inland from Marsala. The Nero d’Avola grapes are sourced from vineyards in central Sicily, in the province of Caltanissetta. The vineyards here are 500 metres above sea level, where the combination of warm days and cool nights helps in the production of premium red wines.
Still made in the traditional way, the Marsalas are the real deal and make a great alternative to Sherry. The stunning art deco labels designed by Ernesto Basile, a famous Palermo architect in the latter part of the 19th Century, are still used today. The Marsala Superiore is made in the traditional manner, with the base wines made from Grillo, Inzolia and Catarratto. These are subsequently fortified with white grape spirit and aged for two years in cask. The result is a rich yet dry, aromatic and heady wine.
