Curatolo Arini

Curatolo Arini was established in 1875 by Vito Curatolo Arini and remains under family stewardship—now in its fifth generation—as Sicily's longest-standing Marsala house. What sets them apart is their partnership with consultant winemaker Alberto Antonini, whose influence balances the natural richness of Sicilian fruit with the freshness and precision that defines modern winemaking.

About Curatolo Arini

The estate's vineyards span different microclimates across Sicily, each chosen to bring out specific character in the wines. The single-vineyard Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria) grows in the western vineyards near Marsala, where it develops into a dry, aromatic style built for the table. The Nero d'Avola comes from central Sicily, in Caltanissetta province, planted at 500 metres elevation—where cool nights and warm days create the conditions for fruit-driven red wines with structure and depth.

For the white varieties—Inzolia and Catarratto—the estate cultivates grapes in elevated vineyard parcels at roughly 500 metres within the Chirchiaro region, positioned inland toward Salemi. The winemaking is deliberate and restrained: after destemming and crushing, the grapes macerate for just a few hours before soft pressing and fermentation in stainless steel. Following fermentation, the whites rest on their lees for a period of two months prior to being sealed, a practice that enriches texture and aromatic complexity while maintaining freshness and terroir expression.

Traditional methods define Curatolo Arini's Marsala production, positioning these wines as a genuine alternative to Sherry. Dried citrus notes and toasted almond complexity characterize the Marsala Fine, which presents an expressive dry profile. The Marsala Vergine Riserva—produced sparingly in outstanding years—undergoes nearly 25 years of cask ageing, developing the length and complexity that collectors seek.

Curatolo Arini Wines in Our Collection

The 2024 Nero d'Avola (88 points) is a structured red built for autumn and winter eating—dark fruit, spice, and the cool-climate freshness that 500-metre elevation provides.

Food Pairing

Pair the Nero d'Avola with roasted lamb, beef stew, or game birds. The Zibibbo Secco shines with grilled squid, sea urchin, or risotto with shellfish. The Inzolia and Catarratto complement pasta with seafood, soft cheeses, and light fish preparations—think branzino or halibut. The Marsala Superiore Riserva works as an aperitif or with blue cheese and walnuts; the Vergine Riserva is a meditation wine best served neat in small measures.

Why is Curatolo Arini significant?

Founded in 1875, it is the oldest family-owned Marsala producer still operating, now in its fifth generation. Consultant winemaker Alberto Antonini brings modern precision to traditional Sicilian winemaking.

What makes the Marsala from Curatolo Arini different?

Made traditionally from Grillo, Inzolia, and Catarratto, aged in cask (five years for Superiore, up to 25 years for Vergine Riserva). The 1995 Vergine Riserva scored 92 points from Jancis Robinson and 95 from Decanter.

Are the still wines as well-reviewed as the Marsalas?

Yes. The 2024 Nero d'Avola and Zibibbo Secco both score 88 points. The 2025 Inzolia and Catarratto score 88 points, reflecting elevation (500m) and restrained winemaking that prioritises freshness.

Who makes Curatolo Arini wines?

Curatolo Arini was founded in 1875 by Vito Curatolo Arini and remains under family stewardship in its fifth generation. Consultant winemaker Alberto Antonini guides production across vineyards spanning different Sicilian microclimates.

What style of wine does Curatolo Arini make?

Curatolo Arini specialises in Marsala using traditional methods, plus Sicilian table wines. Their Nero d'Avola is a structured red (88 points); whites include dry Zibibbo, Inzolia, and Catarratto, all fermented in stainless steel with lees ageing for freshness and complexity.

How much does Curatolo Arini wine cost?

Curatolo Arini wines range from £10.35 to £38.05. Marsala Fine starts at £10.35; dry table wines (Nero d'Avola, Zibibbo, Inzolia, Catarratto) sit between £14–£20; aged Marsala Riservas reach £24–£38.