What kind of wine is Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2023 - Donnafugata (0.375l - cased)

The Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2023 - Donnafugata (0.375l - cased) is one of Italy's most iconic natural sweet wines, an absolute symbol of the island of Pantelleria and the mastery of the Sicilian winery Donnafugata. It is made exclusively from Zibibbo grapes (or Muscat of Alexandria), grown as Pantescan alberello — an ancient technique recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This passito stands out for its intense, aromatic, and harmonious style, where sweetness and freshness coexist in perfect balance. The result is a wine that offers deep emotions, perfect as a meditation wine or to accompany refined desserts.

Vintage details

The 2023 vintage in Pantelleria was characterized by a balanced climate, with mild winters and a warm but breezy summer season. The temperature excursions between day and night favored the aromatic concentration of Zibibbo, while maintaining remarkable freshness. The grapes, hand-picked in several passes, reached perfect ripeness, ensuring complexity and aromatic finesse for the Ben Ryé 2023.

Winemaking and aging

The winemaking of Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2023 - Donnafugata (0.375l - cased) follows a unique method that combines tradition and oenological precision. The grapes are first naturally dried in the sun of Pantelleria, concentrating sugars and aromas. During fermentation in stainless steel, dried grapes are progressively added to the fermenting must: it is in this phase that the wine develops its unmistakable richness of taste. Aging takes place in stainless steel for several months, followed by an additional period in the bottle to integrate the aromas and round out the structure.

Tasting notes

Color

In the glass, the Ben Ryé 2023 presents a luminous amber color, reminiscent of the golden reflections of the Pantescan sun.

Nose

On the nose, it is an explosion of intense and complex aromas: candied orange peel, dates, dried apricot, and honey intertwine with Mediterranean herb notes and mineral hints that speak of Pantelleria's volcanic territory.

Palate

On the palate, it is enveloping and velvety, with a sweetness balanced by excellent acidity and a surprising freshness. The finish is very long, with fruity returns and a pleasant saline sensation that invites another sip.

What dishes to pair with Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2023 - Donnafugata (0.375l - cased)

The Ben Ryé 2023 is a versatile wine, perfect for elegantly concluding a meal. It pairs magnificently with:

• Dry pastries and almond or pistachio-based desserts
• Blue or aged cheeses (such as gorgonzola or pecorino)
• Foie gras or duck terrines for a sweet and sour contrast
• Desserts based on dried fruit or dark chocolate

For a unique experience, it can also be enjoyed alone, contemplating its aromatic complexity.

Storage and aging - how to store Passito di Pantelleria 'Ben Ryé' 2023 - Donnafugata (0.375l - cased)

Passito di Pantelleria Ben Ryé 2023 is a delicate but long-lived wine, which best expresses its richness in the first years after bottling. To best preserve its complex aromas and balanced sweetness, it should be stored in a cool, dark cellar, with a constant temperature around 14-16°C and the bottle laid flat to keep the cork moist. It is advisable to consume it within 2-3 years to appreciate its vibrancy and freshness, although, over time, it can evolve with more honeyed and spicy notes.