What kind of wine is Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube)
Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube) is a fortified wine typical of the Sicilian tradition, produced in the coastal area of Marsala and Petrosino. It is made from indigenous Grillo, Catarratto, and Inzolia grapes, varieties that have represented the soul of the best Marsalas for centuries. With a higher alcohol content than table wines, this Marsala stands out for its rich structure and warm, enveloping character, ideal for those seeking a complex and elegant dessert wine.Vintage details
The 2014 vintage was characterized by balanced climatic conditions, which allowed for complete grape ripening and excellent sugar concentration, necessary for the production of a "Dolce" (Sweet) Marsala. The result is a wine with a harmonious profile, where sweetness and acidity coexist in perfect balance, maintaining brightness and aromatic vivacity despite the complexity of the type.Vinification and aging
The vinification follows the traditional Marsala method: fermentation is interrupted by the addition of wine spirit, a practice known as "fortification," which preserves part of the grapes' natural sugars and contributes to the high alcohol content. The wine then ages for over 48 months in 80 and 50 hectoliter oak barrels, with further refinement of at least 6 months in barriques. This long aging period gives the Marsala a unique aromatic complexity, with warm and velvety notes that only time can bestow.Tasting notes
Color
To the eye, it presents a refined amber gold color, bright and intense, typical of superior "Oro" (Gold) Marsalas. The golden nuances reveal the long period in wood and anticipate the sumptuousness of the aroma.Nose
The bouquet is broad and harmonious: scents of dried fruit, figs, dates, and candied orange peel emerge, accompanied by delicate notes of honey, vanilla, and sweet spices. The oxidative nuances typical of wood aging enrich the aromatic range with sensations of caramel and light toasted accents.Taste
On the palate, the Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 is soft, round, and enveloping. The sweetness is balanced by a pleasant savory vein and a fine acidity that support its drinkability. The finish is long, persistent, and rich in aromatic returns of ripe fruit and honey.What dishes to pair with Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube)
This Marsala lends itself to various gastronomic pairings, perfect for enhancing its sweetness and elegance:- Baked desserts such as cassata, Sicilian cannoli, and dry almond pastries.
- Aged or blue cheeses, such as sweet Gorgonzola or aged Pecorino, for a refined contrast between savory and sweet.
- Dark chocolate and spoon desserts, for a classy after-dinner treat.
Storage and aging: how to store Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube)
Thanks to its high alcohol content and long aging in wood, Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 is a wine naturally predisposed to last over time. To best preserve it:- Keep the bottle upright, to limit contact of the wine with the cork.
- Store it in a cool, dry place away from light, preferably with a constant temperature between 14 and 18°C.
- Once opened, it can remain perfectly intact for several weeks if hermetically sealed.
Pellegrino 1880 Wineries
The history of Cantine Pellegrino 1880 winery Cantine Pellegrino 1880 is a name that evokes a consolidated tradition and a winemaking legacy passed down through generations. The winery was founded in 1880 and since then has never stopped evolving, harmoniously combining respect for traditions wit...
How to best open and serve Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube)
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube), position the bottle upright for at least 24 hours. This allows natural sediments, typical of aged wines, to settle at the bottom, preventing them from mixing during serving. Keep the bottle away from heat sources and direct light.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The ideal temperature to enjoy this sweet Marsala is between 14°C and 16°C. If stored in a cellar at room temperature (around 18°C), place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. The correct temperature enhances the notes of caramel, honey, and dried fruit, typical of Marsala Riserva Superiore.
3. Opening the bottle
Use a lever corkscrew or a sommelier corkscrew to delicately open the bottle. Follow these steps:
- Thoroughly dry the neck of the bottle for a secure grip.
- Carefully remove the protective capsule without shaking the contents.
- Insert the corkscrew worm into the center of the cork and twist slowly until about two turns from the end.
- Extract the cork with a controlled motion, avoiding jerking.
If the cork is fragile, typical of older wines, use a two-pronged cork puller to avoid damaging it.
4. Inspection and initial tasting
Once opened, pour a small amount of wine into a large glass. Observe the color, which should be a brilliant golden amber. Smell the aroma to ensure there are no cork taint or abnormal oxidation notes. On the first taste, check that the flavor is harmonious and enveloping, with balanced sweet notes and aromas of dried fruit and sweet spices.
5. Decanting and oxygenation
Although Marsala does not require long decanting like structured red wines, a brief oxygenation can enhance its aromatic bouquet. Follow these steps:
- Pour the wine slowly into a carafe or decanter with a wide base.
- Let it rest for about 15–20 minutes before serving.
- Avoid pouring the last few milliliters if you notice the presence of sediment.
During oxygenation, the more complex notes of dried figs, dates, and vanilla are released, making the tasting experience even more intense.
6. Serving
Serve Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube) in small tulip-shaped or balloon glasses, perfect for concentrating the aromas. Pour about one-third of the glass to allow the wine to breathe and express its aromatic complexity to the fullest.
You can pair it with:
- Blue cheeses such as Gorgonzola Dolce or Roquefort
- Sicilian desserts based on almond or chocolate
- Moments of meditation, to be savored slowly
7. Storage after opening
After opening, reseal the bottle airtight with its original cork or a silicone stopper. Store the Marsala in a cool, dark place, preferably in the refrigerator. Thanks to its structure and sugar content, it can remain intact for up to 3–4 weeks without losing its main aromatic characteristics.
By following these simple steps, you can fully appreciate every nuance of Marsala Riserva Superiore Oro Dolce DOC 'Bip Benjamin' 2014 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (tin tube), elevating your tasting experience to a higher level.