Rallo Azienda Agricola, Passito di Pantelleria, DOP Sicily, Italy [152.1G/L RS] (50cl.), 2017

Producer Profile

Certified organic, the Vesco family make fragrant wines that are among the finest in western Sicily, including crisp Catarrattos and fresh, perfumed Nero d’Avolas from their hillside vineyards.

The Cantine Rallo vineyards occupy three sites: Alcamo for Catarratto and Nero d’Avola; Marsala for Grillo; and Pantelleria for the Zibbibo that makes their delicious Passito di Pantelleria. The grapes tend to be picked relatively early in the season, resulting in a customary bright, fresh style of wine.

Viticulture

Passito di Pantelleria comes from the Bugeber vineyards within the Pantelleria region. 100% Moscato d'Alessandria (Zibibbo), the vines are grown on steep slopes of varying exposition at an altitude of 80 to 100 netres asl. Planted in 1984 the vines are low growing bish vines typical of the Pantelleria region, and are pruned in a guyot style.

Winemaking

Hand harvested at night into 15kg cases before a soft pressing into steel fermenters. Fermentation at 15 to 16 degrees for 20 days with up to 40 macerations a day. Matured in stainless steel for 8 months, then in bottle for 2 months before release.

Tasting Note

A light amber colour with intense citrus, dates, honey, apricot jam, dried figs and raisin on the nose. Sweet, elegant and well-balanced with notes of orange peel, apricots, dried figs and honey with impressive acidity and persistence.

Food Matching

Delicious if served with fruit-based desserts, with typical Sicilian pastries and also with medium or high-seasoned cheeses.