What wine is Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed)
The Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed) is a highly prestigious fortified wine, a symbol of Sicilian winemaking art. Produced in Marsala, in the province of Trapani, it originates from selected grapes and a long tradition dating back to the nineteenth century. Compared to other fortified wines like Port or Sherry, Marsala stands out for the fusion of Mediterranean warmth and aromatic complexity. The "Secco" (dry) version indicates a very low residual sugar level, which provides elegance and distinct savoriness. The alcohol content, which is around 18-19% vol, comes from the controlled addition of alcohol during winemaking, a typical practice for fortified wines.Vintage Details
The 2000 vintage was characterized by a mild and stable climate that favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes, particularly the Grillo variety, historically used for the best Marsala wines. Manual harvesting allowed for the selection of grapes at the moment of perfect overripening, ensuring a high sugar concentration and a rich structure, ideal for prolonged aging.Winemaking and Aging
After fermentation conducted in cement tanks with a constant oxygen supply – a technique that helps the wine develop balance and softness – Marsala is "fortified," meaning wine alcohol is added to stop fermentation and preserve the aromas. This is followed by a long aging period of over 21 years in oak barrels of various capacities, stored in the historic Florio cellars at controlled temperature and humidity. This long contact with wood imparts evolved, complex tones and an extraordinary aromatic depth.Tasting Notes
Color
Visually, the Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed) presents an intense amber color, with golden and coppery reflections. The clarity and density in the glass attest to its long and careful aging.Nose
The bouquet is deep and varied. Notes of dried fruit, candied orange peel, sweet spices, and an elegant balsamic touch alternate. Aging in wood imparts hints of vanilla, tobacco, and a slight ethereal nuance that underlines its structure.Palate
On the palate, it is dry and harmonious, with a perfect balance between softness and savoriness. The body is full yet never heavy, supported by a long and clean finish where pleasant sensations of toasted almond and spicy notes are recognizable. It is a meditative wine, capable of telling a story of time.What dishes to pair with Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed)
This dry Marsala lends itself to multiple gastronomic pairings. Ideal for accompanying structured and flavorful dishes, it enhances Mediterranean cuisine and is also surprising with aged cheeses or spicy preparations. Here are some suggestions:- Blue cheeses or aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Siciliano
- Red meat dishes, braised meats, or game
- Meditation dishes, such as foie gras or Venetian-style liver
- Excellent as a conversational wine or with high-percentage dark chocolate
Storage and aging: how to store Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed)
Thanks to its high alcohol content and complex structure, the Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed) is a wine that can be stored for a long time, even after opening. To maintain its quality over time:- Store the bottle upright to prevent prolonged contact of the wine with the cork
- Keep the wine in a cool place, away from direct light and temperature fluctuations
- After opening, close the bottle tightly and store it in the refrigerator: it can maintain its aromatic characteristics for several weeks
Florio
The History of Florio Winery Florio is a name that evokes a rich winemaking tradition, born in the heart of Sicily. Founded in 1833 by Vincenzo Florio, the company quickly became synonymous with excellence and innovation. For almost two centuries, Florio has been able to interpret the Sicilian te...
How to best open and serve Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed)
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed), ensure the bottle has been stored horizontally, away from direct light and heat sources. Approximately 24 hours before serving, position it vertically to allow natural sediments to settle at the bottom, preventing them from mixing with the wine during pouring.
2. Ideal serving temperature
This aged Marsala best expresses its aromas when served at the right temperature. The ideal serving temperature is between 16°C and 18°C. If it has been stored in a cool place, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before opening.
3. Opening the bottle
Proceed with care to avoid damaging the cork, which can be fragile after so many years.
- Clean the neck of the bottle with a clean, dry cloth.
- Cut the capsule below the neck ring.
- Use a lever or long screw corkscrew, inserting it slowly into the center of the cork.
- Extract the cork with steady movements and without jerking.
4. Inspection and first taste
Check the cork: if it emits an aroma of dried fruit, noble woods, or caramel notes, the wine is in perfect condition. Pour a small amount of Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed) into a glass for a first taste and verify that it is harmonious and clean on the nose and palate.
5. Decanting and aeration
Being an aged wine, decanting is a fundamental step to enhance its full aromatic complexity.
- Use a clean, transparent decanter.
- Pour the wine slowly, holding the bottle slightly tilted and stopping before the sediments reach the neck.
- Allow the wine to aerate for about 20–30 minutes, so that it can fully express its notes of toast, spices, and ripe fruit.
6. Serving
Serve Marsala Superiore Riserva Secco DOC 2000 - Florio (boxed) in structured wine glasses with a slightly closed rim to concentrate the aromas. Pour small quantities and invite guests to taste it slowly, appreciating its evolution in the glass.
7. Storage after opening
After opening, reseal the bottle with its original cork or an airtight stopper. Store the wine in a cool, dark place, preferably in the refrigerator. Under these conditions, Marsala can maintain its characteristics for up to 3–4 weeks. Before serving again, allow it to return to room temperature.