Carricante

Carricante is an Italian white wine grape variety, best known for its bright, acidic wines produced in the Mt. Etna region of Sicily. This variety is widely planted in the province of Catania and is the main component of the DOC Etna Bianco.

Carricante produces juicy, crisp wines with high acidity and moderate alcohol levels. Its berries have a pale yellow-green colour and it has a strong and distinctive aroma of apples, white flowers and citrus fruits. In terms of taste profile, Carricante wines are known for their citrus and mineral notes as well as their minerality.

Carricante is grown almost exclusively in the Mt. Etna region of Sicily. This variety flourishes in the Sicilian volcanic soils and is widely planted in the province of Catania, particularly on the slopes of Etna. Carricante is a hardy variety and is relatively easy to cultivate, as it can tolerate cold temperatures and requires minimal inputs. It ripens late and, if harvested too early, can result in a flabby and acidic wine. In terms of winemaking, this variety is usually blended with other white varieties, such as Grecanico and Catarratto, to produce full-bodied and complex wines. It is also used to make sparkling wines. In the Mt. Etna region, Carricante is used to make crisp and bright whites. These wines are usually light-bodied, with aromas of citrus, apples and white flowers and a refreshing mineral finish. It is also blended with other white varieties to create fuller-bodied and complex wines. Carricante is a versatile variety and pairs well with a variety of dishes, from seafood to salads and vegetable dishes. Its high acidity complements fatty and creamy dishes and its refreshing mineral notes make it a great match for fish and shellfish.

Carricante literally means "loading up", it refers to the high productivity of the grape.