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Vintage:
1988
Denomination:
Marsala
Origin:
Italy, Sicily
Alcohol:
19%
Format:
0.75 L
Product origin:
Business
Serving temperature:
16°
When to drink:
Meditation, After dinner
Type:
Fortified Wine
Taste:
Intense, elegant, with notes of dried fruit, spices and oxidative accents
Flavorings:
hazelnut, almond, dates, caramel, spices, honey
Allergens:
Sulphites
Longevity:
21+ years
What kind of wine is Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased)?
The Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) is a dry fortified wine of extraordinary complexity, an authentic expression of Sicilian tradition. Originating from the historic Marsala area, this wine stands out for its higher alcohol content (around 19% vol.) and its natural fortification, placing it in the same family as great fortified wines like Port and Sherry, but with a totally Mediterranean personality. It is a Marsala of rare refinement, designed for those seeking a meditation or collectible wine, but also for those who wish to discover the profound nuances of an authentic author's Riserva.
Vintage Details
1988 was a particularly favorable vintage for the Grillo grape variety, an indigenous Sicilian variety capable of expressing great structure and freshness. In that season, characterized by hot and breezy summers, the grapes reached optimal ripeness, yielding dense and aromatic musts. This Riserva represents a true snapshot of that year, because Marco De Bartoli decided to experiment for the first and only time with a Marsala Vergine, vinifying an exclusive and unrepeatable batch.
Vinification and aging
The production of this Marsala follows a traditional and meticulous process. After fermentation in oak barrels, the wine is fortified with brandy from the same vintage, a rare detail that ensures consistency and aromatic purity. Aging lasted for over 27 years in oak and chestnut barrels of various sizes: the wood allowed the wine to oxidize slowly, developing a complex and particularly harmonious profile. The result is a Riserva of extraordinary longevity, with a strong and distinctive character.
Tasting Notes
Every taste of Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) tells a different story: that of a lively, profound wine imbued with memories of time.
Color
Visually, it presents an intense, luminous, and deep amber color, with golden reflections that testify to its long barrel aging. The brilliance and density when swirling the glass anticipate its extraordinary structure.
Nose
The bouquet is broad and layered: notes of dried fruit, toasted hazelnut, and orange peel emerge, with delicate hints of honey, tobacco, and licorice. Controlled oxidation has gifted complex aromas reminiscent of old wood and vanilla, perfectly integrated.
Taste
On the palate, it is dry and decisive, with a surprising freshness that balances the alcoholic power. The texture is velvety, the finish very long and saline. Notes of almond and spices complete an elegant and persistent sip that invites a second taste.
Food Pairings for Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased)
While perfect as a meditation wine, Marsala Vergine Riserva 1988 can be surprisingly paired with:
- Aged and spicy cheeses, such as Pecorino or Parmigiano Reggiano.
- Complex dishes based on red meat, braises, or game.
- Foie gras or truffle preparations, where the wine plays a role of elegant contrast.
- Dry desserts and dark chocolate, for a rich and satisfying finish.
Also ideal for accompanying a conversation after dinner or for enjoying alone, like a distillation of history and passion.
Storage and Aging: How to store Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased)
Thanks to its high alcohol content and elevated aromatic concentration, Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) is a wine that can be stored for decades, maintaining its structure intact. It is advisable to store it upright, in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Once opened, it can be enjoyed even after a few weeks, carefully re-corked and stored in the refrigerator. Time, as this 1988 masterpiece demonstrates, is the best ally of a Marsala of this caliber.
Marco De Bartoli
The History of Marco De Bartoli Winery The Marco De Bartoli winery is a benchmark in the Italian wine scene, thanks to its ability to expertly blend tradition and innovation. Founded in the 1980s by Marco De Bartoli, the winery is located in Sicily and represents the legacy of a family deeply roo...
How to best open and serve Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased)
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening a bottle of Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased), it is important to handle it with care. If the bottle has been lying down in the cellar, place it upright for at least 24 hours. This step allows the natural sediments of the aged wine to settle at the bottom, making the liquid clearer when served.
2. Ideal serving temperature
Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) should be served at the right temperature to enhance the wine's complex aromas and structure:
- Ideal temperature: between 16°C and 18°C.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes that could alter the aromatic balance.
- If the wine is too warm, gently cool it by placing it in a cool spot for a few minutes, never directly in the refrigerator.
3. Opening the bottle
With long-aged wines like this Marsala, the cork can be fragile. Therefore, use a double-lever corkscrew or, even better, an ah-so corkscrew, which reduces the risk of cork breakage. Proceed slowly, keeping the bottle neck clean and dry. Once the cork is extracted, smell it: it should have an intense but harmonious scent, free from musty or corked odors.
4. Inspection and first taste
Pour a small amount of Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) into a glass and observe it against the light. The color should be amber with golden or coppery reflections. On the nose, you should perceive notes of dried fruit, spices, and Mediterranean herbs. Taste a sip to verify that the wine is in good condition before proceeding with decanting.
5. Decanting and oxygenation
Although Marsala is a fortified wine and more stable than other vintage wines, decanting can further enrich the experience. Proceed as follows:
- Use a clean and dry decanter.
- Slowly pour the wine, keeping the bottle tilted and ensuring that any sediments remain at the bottom.
- Let the wine rest in the decanter for about 20–30 minutes to oxygenate and best release its complex aromas.
6. Serving
Serve the Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) in white wine or distillate glasses, with the top slightly closed to concentrate the aromas. Pour small quantities to appreciate the evolution in the glass. This excellent wine pairs perfectly with:
- Aged and blue cheeses
- Dry almond desserts
- Traditional Sicilian cuisine and sweet and sour dishes
7. Storage after opening
After opening, Marsala Vergine Riserva DOC 1988 - Marco De Bartoli (cased) can retain its characteristics for several weeks if properly stored. Seal the bottle tightly with its original cork or an airtight stopper and store it in a cool, dry place away from light. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator: a stable temperature of 14–16°C is ideal for maintaining its aromatic richness.
