Introduction

Sicily is more than just heat, sun and dramatic coastlines—it’s a land of ancient vines and indigenous grape varieties, producing whites of refreshing acidity and character. Among these, Cantine Pupillo Targetta 2024 DOC Sicilia Bianco Catarratto stands out as a superb expression of the island's terroir, especially around Syracuse. In this review, I’ll take you through everything you need to know: the grape variety, its viticultural heritage, winemaking process, flavour profile, texture, ageing potential, food pairing, and what makes this wine special for those in the UK seeking something both regional and refined.

The Wine & Its Origin

Producer: Cantine Pupillo
Wine: Targetta 2024 DOC Sicilia Bianco Catarratto
Region: Near Syracuse (Siracusa), Sicily
Grape: 100% Catarratto Bianco Lucido
DOC: Sicilia Bianco

The Pupillo estate is located in the province of Siracusa, a place with volcanic soils and influenced by Mediterranean climatic conditions, which are moderated by sea breezes. The vineyards for “Targetta” lie under the volcanic ramparts of ancient Syracuse, where the soil composition, altitude, sun exposure and proximity to salt air contribute to distinctive minerality and freshness. The volcanic soils and marine breezes impart a character that is both mineral and aromatic.

Grape Variety: Catarratto (Bianco Lucido)

Catarratto is one of Sicily’s most important native white grape varieties. There are different clones, notably Catarratto Bianco Comune and Catarratto Bianco Lucido. The Lucido variety is known for shinier berries and tends to offer slightly more acidity and brighter aromas.

Historically, Catarratto was used in high-yielding vineyards to produce everyday wines, but in recent decades producers have focused on lower yields and careful vineyard management to bring out its full potential. In the right hands, Catarratto delivers wines that are elegant, mineral-driven and refreshing.

Winemaking Process

For Targetta 2024, the process is carefully designed to retain purity and freshness:

• Grapes are hand-harvested at peak ripeness.
• Gentle pressing ensures clean juice without harsh phenolics.
• Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, protecting fruit character and aromatic lift.
• Maturation continues in stainless steel for several months before bottling.

The result is an unoaked wine that allows the grape and terroir to shine, highlighting freshness, savouriness and a mineral finish.

Appearance

In the glass, Cantine Pupillo Targetta 2024 presents a bright straw-yellow colour, with subtle golden reflections. The clarity and tone indicate youth and freshness, while the golden tint hints at ripeness and sun-ripened fruit.

Aroma & Nose

On the nose, the wine exhibits a refined and elegant bouquet with:

• Citrus blossom and lemon zest
• Golden apple and ripe peach
• White floral notes such as orange blossom
• Mineral undertones with a touch of salinity

The overall impression is fresh and inviting, elegant rather than bold, with a complex interplay between fruit, floral and mineral elements.

Palate, Texture & Flavour

On the palate, Targetta 2024 is dry, savoury and balanced:

• Fruit flavours of apple, citrus and peach are present but not overwhelming.
• Acidity is moderate to high, giving freshness and vibrancy.
• A savoury, mineral edge adds texture and depth, reflecting volcanic soils.
• The finish is crisp, refreshing and lingering.

The texture is medium-bodied, with elegance taking priority over weight. It feels satisfying without being heavy, making it ideal for pairing with a wide range of foods.

Ageing Potential

This style of unoaked, steel-aged white is designed to be enjoyed in its youth, ideally within the next 1–3 years. Fresh fruit and floral aromatics are best appreciated early, although short-term cellaring may soften the wine and bring more savoury notes to the fore. For most UK drinkers, this is a wine to enjoy now, capturing its lively, bright profile.

What Makes It Good

Several factors set Cantine Pupillo Targetta 2024 apart:

1. Terroir expression – Volcanic soils and coastal breezes create minerality and freshness.
2. Quality clone – Catarratto Bianco Lucido brings brighter acidity and aroma.
3. Winemaking focus – Stainless steel preserves natural purity without oak interference.
4. Balance – Fruit, acidity and savoury character are in harmony.
5. Distinctiveness – For UK wine lovers, it offers something different from the more familiar Sauvignon Blancs or Chardonnays.

Food Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Targetta 2024 is a versatile food wine, particularly suited to lighter Mediterranean-inspired dishes. It pairs beautifully with seafood, especially grilled fish, prawns, clams or scallops with lemon and olive oil. Its crispness also works with white meats such as chicken or turkey, particularly when herbs or citrus are involved.

Vegetarian pairings include risottos with asparagus or courgettes, pasta with light herb sauces, grilled peppers, or salads with mild cheeses like ricotta or goat’s cheese. The savoury, mineral edge cuts through creamy textures, refreshing the palate.

Serve chilled at 9–11 °C in a medium-sized white wine glass. Decanting is unnecessary, but allowing the wine to open for a few minutes in the glass will enhance its floral and citrus aromatics.

Overall Verdict

Cantine Pupillo Targetta 2024 DOC Sicilia Bianco Catarratto is an elegant and authentic Sicilian white wine that showcases the island’s terroir. Balanced between fruit, floral notes and a savoury, mineral finish, it offers freshness and character at a fair price. For UK buyers seeking something different from mainstream whites, this bottle is a superb choice.

Rating: 4.3/5 – A refreshing, food-friendly wine with strong sense of place and impressive elegance.

Suggestions for UK Buyers & Occasions

This wine is ideal for those who enjoy exploring beyond the usual Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It shines during summer gatherings, seafood dinners, or casual evenings where a distinctive and elegant white is wanted. It’s also an excellent conversation starter at dinner parties, showcasing Sicily’s vinous heritage in an approachable, modern style.