What kind of wine is Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio?
Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio is a liqueur wine produced in the western coastal area of Sicily, one of the most suitable regions for this type. It is a fortified wine, meaning a wine to which alcohol of vinous origin is added to increase its alcohol content and stabilize its structure. In the case of Florio's Marsala Secco Superiore, the alcohol content is around 18% vol., a value that places it among the most intense and long-lived wines in the Italian landscape.
Its dry profile distinguishes it for balance and aromatic definition, offering an elegant and harmonious tasting experience that reflects the entire personality of the historic Florio winery, an emblem of quality Marsala since 1833.
Vintage Details
The 2016 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate and regular harvests in the Marsala area. The grapes, mainly of the Grillo variety, are harvested manually starting from mid-September, selecting slightly overripe bunches. This allows obtaining fruits with an ideal sugar and polyphenol concentration for the production of a dry Marsala, capable of combining richness and tension.
Winemaking and Aging
The winemaking process of Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio begins with fermentation in concrete tanks, during which controlled micro-oxygenation is carried out to keep the wine lively and complex. After fermentation, fortification (addition of ethyl alcohol of vinous origin) takes place, which blocks residual fermentation and preserves the wine's structure.
Aging occurs for at least 5 years in oak barrels and vats of various sizes. This long aging in wood gives the wine a deep and complex aromatic profile, where oxidative and balsamic notes intertwine in perfect harmony with the dry character of the Marsala.
Tasting Notes
Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio is a wine with a decisive and refined character, which captivates with its balance between structure, elegance, and freshness.
Color
Visually, it presents an intense amber color with golden reflections, clear and brilliant. The hue is the result of aging in wood, which enriches the wine with warm and luminous nuances.
Nose
On the nose, complex and distinct notes emerge: dried fruit, toasted almond, hints of sweet tobacco, and a slight balsamic quality reminiscent of licorice root. Spicy and saline nuances complete an elegant and harmonious bouquet, typical of the Florio style.
Taste
On the palate, it is dry, decisive, and well-balanced. The entry is soft, but immediately supported by a pleasant savory vein and a vibrant alcoholic structure. The finish is long and refined, with a touch of bitter almond that invites another sip.
What dishes to pair with Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio
Its dry and complex personality makes it an extremely versatile wine at the table. Perfect as a gourmet aperitif or accompaniment to structured seafood dishes, it also offers surprises with white meat preparations and aged cheeses.
- Shellfish and raw fish – the ideal pairing to enhance its savoriness and marine freshness;
- Smoked or marinated fish – where the wine's dry component balances the dish's aromatic richness;
- Aged cheeses – such as Sicilian pecorino or Parmesan, for a harmonious contrast between savoriness and complexity;
- Mediterranean cuisine – also perfect with dishes based on roasted vegetables or first courses with seafood.
Storage and aging: how to store Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio
Thanks to its high alcohol content and fortified structure, Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio can be stored much longer than traditional wines. It is advisable to keep it in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 18°C and the bottle in an upright position, to limit the liquid's contact with the cork.
Once opened, it can be enjoyed for several weeks if stored in the refrigerator and well sealed. Over time, the wine evolves further, developing even more intense and complex aromas: a true pleasure for those who love to discover how Marsala changes and matures in the glass.
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 Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio, ensure that the bottle has been stored horizontally, away from direct light and temperature fluctuations. Approximately one hour before serving, place the bottle upright to allow the natural sediments of the aged wine to settle at the bottom. This precaution will ensure a clearer and more precise pour.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The ideal temperature to enjoy a Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio is between 14°C and 16°C. If the bottle has been stored in a cool cellar, you can simply leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid serving it too cold, as excessive cold tends to close off the aromatic bouquet of this Sicilian wine.
3. Opening the bottle
Use a quality corkscrew to gently remove the protective capsule and then the cork. If the cork is fragile due to aging, proceed slowly to prevent it from crumbling. In case of residue, filter the wine during decanting to ensure maximum clarity.
4. Inspection and first taste
After opening, observe the color and aroma of the wine. A well-preserved Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio will exhibit amber tones and a complex bouquet, with notes of dried fruit, spices, and subtle hints of vanilla. Take a small taste to check for cork taint or any sensory anomalies.
5. Decanting and aeration
This wine benefits from proper aeration. Slowly pour the Marsala into a decanter, avoiding disturbing the sediments. Let the wine rest for about 20–30 minutes before serving: this will allow the aromas to open up and fully express the complexity of Florio Marsala. Light aeration enhances the toasted aromas and the depth of flavor.
6. Serving
Serve Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio in large, slightly flared glasses that promote the diffusion of aromas. Pour moderately, so that you can swirl the wine and appreciate its bouquet. It is a wine that pairs perfectly with aged cheeses, pâtés, and richly flavored dishes.
7. Storage after opening
After opening, carefully reseal the bottle with the original cork or an airtight stopper. Store the Marsala Secco Superiore DOC 2016 - Florio in a cool, dark place. If well sealed, it can maintain its qualities for 3–4 weeks. Before each subsequent tasting, allow the wine to settle for a few minutes to regain its harmony.