Donnafugata Ben Rye Passito di Pantelleria DOC 2017, 375ml, Sicilia, Italy

Founded by a Sicilian family with 150 years of premium winemaking experience, Donnafugata means ‘fleeing woman’ and refers to Queen Maria Carolina, who in the 19th century took refuge in western Sicily where the vineyards are today. Made from native Zibibbo grapes (Moscato d’Alexxandria) ripened and sun dried on the volcanic island of Pantelleria. The grapes come from 12 different areas of the island having unique micro-climates that determine different times of maturity. During the course of fermentation, the dried grapes, that have been de-stemmed by hand, are added several times. The phase of maceration of the dried grape in the must is delicate and essential to obtain the extraordinary qualities of persuasive sweetness, freshness and special aroma. The wine then ages in stainless steel tanks for at least 4 months and 6 months in the bottle. Brilliant amber, Ben Rye surprises with it freshness and complexity. The bouquet is intense and fragrant: typical aromas of apricots and candied citrus zest combined with balsamic scents of Mediterranean scrub and sweet notes of honey and fresh figs. The palate is well defined and intense, with pleasant sweetness well balanced by a fresh vein of acidity and lively sapidity. It finishes with a lingering persistence. A captivating Passito di Pantelleria, one of the most appreciated Italian sweet wines in the world.