Salaparuta

"Salaparuta" is a Protected Designation of Origin that identifies the following wines: White, Red, Riserva Red and Novello. In addition, it includes some single-variety productions: Inzolia, Grillo, Chardonnay, Catarratto, Nero d'Avola (also in the Riserva type), Merlot (also Riserva), Cabernet Sauvignon (also Riserva) and Syrah (also Riserva). 

Grapes

The Salaparuta Bianco is produced with grapes from vineyards with at least 60% of Catarratto vine. In the Rosso and Rosso Riserva, on the other hand, a 65% of Nero d'Avola is required. The latter is also present in Novello (for at least 50%) combined with Merlot (minimum 20%). All variants with indication of the vine, however, require that this represents at least 85% of the grapes. Finally, in all the productions it is allowed to use, up to the missing quotas, also other similar grape varieties, not aromatic, suitable for the cultivation in Sicilia Region

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white wine (minimum total alcoholic strength by volume 12% vol) is straw yellow, with a fine and elegant aroma and a typical and delicate taste. Red, on the other hand, has a rather intense colouring, accompanied by a pleasant and fine aroma and a harmonious and structured taste. In the Riserva variant (14% vol) the aspect becomes deep ruby, the smell is intense and harmonious and the taste rich, full-bodied and spicy. The Novello (11,50% vol. ) is also ruby red and has an intense, fruity and characteristic aroma and a savoury and soft taste. The single-variety products are distinguished by very peculiar organoleptic characteristics, described precisely in the specification

Grape production area

The production area coincides only with the municipality of Salaparuta, in the province of Trapani. A hilly area overlooking the Belice Valley and characterized by a typical Mediterranean climate. 

Specificity and historical notes

The territory of Salaparuta, given the wealth of water, has always been the center of conflict between the different populations that have inhabited and dominated Sicily. Viticulture has also suffered greatly from this, and has established itself as the result of successive stratifications, with strong Greek, Carthaginian and Roman influences.