Santa Margherita di Belice

"Santa Margherita di Belice" is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) that identifies white and red wines, without specifications or with an indication of one of the following grape varieties: Catarratto, Grecanico, Ansonica, Nero d'Avola and Sangiovese.

Grapes

For the production of white wines “Santa Margherita di Belice” it is required the use of grapes from vineyards made from the Ansonica vines, with a share between 30% and 50%, and Grecanico and Catarratto glossy white, with a quota between 50 % and 70% (alone or jointly). For red wines, however, it is necessary to have Nero d'Avola (between 20% and 50%) and Sangiovese and Cabernet sauvignon (alone or jointly, between 50% and 80%). Finally, in productions with indication of the vine, this must represent 85% of the reference vineyards. In all types, up to a maximum of 15%, the use of other similar berry varieties, suitable for cultivation in Sicilia region, is allowed.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white “Santa Margherita di Belice” (minimum total alcholic strength by volume 10.5% vol) has a pleasant pale straw-like appearance, with greenish reflections; the smell is delicate, fruity and characteristic; the taste is dry, harmonious, lively and fresh. The red (11.5%), however, is ruby in color, embellished with garnet hues; it releases a vinous and ethereal smell, characterized by a marked finesse; on the palate it is dry and with good structure, as well as slightly tannic. In the single-variety varieties, the basic organoleptic characteristics are enriched with specific characteristics of the specific ointment, which are duly described in the product specification.

Grape production area

The rather limited area of production is located in southwestern Sicilia and bordered by the Belìce, Senore and Carboj rivers. It is a hilly area with typical Mediterranean climate.

Specificity and historical notes

The local viticulture undoubtedly has its roots in the period of Greek colonization and then continued, with ever-greater force, under Roman domination. Few are the testimonies of this activity in the medieval centuries.