November 17, 2011  6:00 PM

Whitewater Golf Club

Featuring the Wines of Sicily

Sicily's most famous wine is Marsala,  It is usually made from native Grillo, Catorratto or Inzolia grapes.  Marsala was first made in the city of that name by a John Woodhouse, who established his winery in 1796.  Today, there are three different forms, namely Oro (golden), Ambra (amber) and Rubino (ruby).

The Zibibbo grape varietal is native to Sicily and is used to produce anything from grappa to table wines.  The process, which dates back to the middle ages, involves partially fermenting the grapes in the sun.  The result is a wine that is typically lower in alcohol content than Marsala.

The Primitivo grape is also a Scililian varietal that may have been introduced by the Albanians in the 16th century.  Some say it is the grape that is known to Americans as Zinfandel and was brought to California by Spanish colonists in the early 18th century.

Nero d'Avola is Sicily's most popular non fortified varietal.  It is a full bodied red that is often compared to Syrah.  The best wineries place the harvested grapes in cool vats, preferably at night, to avoid premature fermentation.

Sicilian wines are typically not readily accessible through normal retail channels.  Most of the wines produced are consumed in the region.  As a result, this year's Culinary and Wine Tasting Dinner promises to offer something unique and memorable to those who attend!