Donna Fugata, Passito Di Pantelleria "Ben Rye" 2021 Sicily, Italy

From the volcanic island of Pantelleria, where ancient head-trained bush vines are cultivated using UNESCO Heritage techniques, Donnafugata has crafted one of Italy's most celebrated dessert wines. Made with carefully sun-dried Zibibbo grapes from terraced vineyards on this windy volcanic island, Ben Ryé translates from Arabic as "son of the wind" - a fitting tribute to this extraordinary wine that captures the essence of Pantelleria's unique terroir.

Tasting Notes

Golden color with bright amber hues, displaying a very intense bouquet ranging from fruity notes of apricot, yellow peach and candied orange peel to tropical hints of mango and papaya, followed by hints of Mediterranean scrub. On the palate, the fruity hints of aromatic herbs are combined with sweet nuances of honey, intense and persistent, with an extraordinary balance between freshness and sweetness. Finishes spicy and long, leaving a dusty inner floral sensation and hints of candied ginger and lime.

Pairs With

Dry pastries, chocolate and jam tarts, ricotta desserts, blue cheese, foie gras

Ratings

94 pts Wine Spectator, 94 pts Vinous, 96 pts Falstaff, 99 pts Luca Maroni