What kind of wine is Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 - Donnafugata (cased)

The Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 - Donnafugata (cased) is an iconic natural sweet wine, among Italy's most representative. It originates on the island of Pantelleria, in the heart of the Mediterranean, from indigenous Zibibbo grapes (Muscat of Alexandria), harvested by hand. Its alcohol content, around 14.5% vol., makes it intense yet balanced, perfect as a meditation wine or for after-dinner.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by warm and breezy weather, ideal for optimal grape ripening. The harvest took place in several passes, between August and September, to select bunches with different levels of ripeness and sugar concentration. The result is a perfect balance between sweetness and freshness, with aromas reminiscent of the island and the sun of Pantelleria.

Winemaking and Aging

The winemaking process for Ben Ryé is an art that combines technique and tradition. Part of the grapes are naturally dried in the sun (a typical practice for Passito di Pantelleria), while another part is vinified fresh. During fermentation, the dried grapes are added to the must, gradually releasing aromas and sugars. After fermentation, the wine ages in steel tanks for several months and then in the bottle, progressively developing its aromatic complexity. It is not a fortified wine: the sweetness and alcohol content derive solely from the natural concentration of sugar in the grapes.

Tasting Notes

The Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 - Donnafugata (cased) is a wine to be sipped slowly, capable of offering a complete sensory journey, from color to taste.

Color

It presents an intense amber yellow with golden reflections that recall the light of the island's sun. Its consistency in the glass is dense and velvety, a sign of body and concentration.

Nose

The aroma is a bouquet of extraordinary richness: dried apricot, figs, dates, and candied citrus peel, accompanied by notes of honey, aromatic herbs, and slight briny nuances. The aroma progressively opens in the glass, offering continuous changes in perspective.

Taste

On the palate, it is intense, sweet but never cloying. The perfect balance between sugars and acidity makes each sip harmonious and persistent. The finish is long, with pleasant hints of dried fruit and orange blossom honey.

Food Pairings for Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 - Donnafugata (cased)

This passito is extremely versatile in its pairings. It is perfect for those who love to conclude a meal with a refined wine, but also as the star of a convivial moment.

• Desserts: dry pastries, fruit tarts, almond or pistachio desserts.
• Cheeses: blue or aged cheeses, such as gorgonzola or pecorino di fossa.
• Special occasions: served alone, as a meditation wine, or paired with high-quality dark chocolate.

Storage and Aging – how to store Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 - Donnafugata (cased)

Thanks to its structure and its high sugar and alcohol content, the Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 is a wine that can age for a long time, evolving over time and developing ever new complexities.

• Store bottles horizontally, away from direct light and at a constant temperature (between 12°C and 16°C).
• After opening, it keeps perfectly in the refrigerator for many days if carefully recorked.
• Over the years, it develops even more intense and honeyed aromatic notes, maintaining its freshness.

The Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2022 - Donnafugata (cased) is not only a sweet wine of great prestige but a sensory experience that celebrates the tradition and passion for Italian oenological excellence.