What kind of wine is Passito di Pantelleria DOC “Nes” 2022 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (0.5l - tin tube)

The Passito di Pantelleria DOC “Nes” 2022 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (0.5l - tin tube) is a sweet fortified wine of Sicilian origin, produced exclusively from Zibibbo grapes (an aromatic grape variety from the Moscato family) cultivated on the island of Pantelleria. Characterized by a medium-high alcohol content, around 14-15% vol., it is made using a natural sun-drying technique that concentrates sugars and aromas, giving the wine an intense and enveloping profile. It is a passito that embodies the soul of the island: warm, mineral, and full of contrasts, with a perfect balance between sweetness and freshness.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage was marked by dry and windy weather conditions, ideal for the production of passito wines. The harvest took place manually between late August and September, when the grapes reached full ripeness. The best bunches are selected for drying on racks in the sun, a traditional practice that concentrates natural aromas and sugars. The result is a rich, harmonious nectar, representative of the authentic style of Cantine Pellegrino 1880.

Winemaking and aging

After the drying phase, the grapes are gently pressed. The resulting must ferments slowly, until the perfect balance between residual sweetness and natural alcohol content is achieved. The wine then ages for several months in steel tanks and small oak barrels, where it develops greater aromatic complexity and structure, while maintaining its fresh and vibrant character. Thanks to its alcohol content and sugar concentration, the Passito di Pantelleria DOC “Nes” 2022 can be considered a fortified wine of great longevity.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, it presents with a brilliant amber color, with golden reflections that testify to its concentration and elegance. The consistency is dense and velvety, a sign of its important structure.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and seductive: notes of dried apricot, candied orange peel, honey, and dates emerge, accompanied by floral notes and a slight spicy hint of vanilla and saffron. Each breath reveals a new nuance, inviting a taste.

Palate

On the palate, it is sweet but never cloying. The lively freshness perfectly balances the sugary softness, creating a harmony that encourages a second sip. The finish is long and persistent, with returns of tropical fruit and mineral hints reminiscent of Pantelleria's volcanic soil.

What dishes to pair with Passito di Pantelleria DOC “Nes” 2022 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (0.5l - tin tube)

This passito is ideal at the end of a meal, but thanks to its balance, it can also surprise with more original pairings. Here are some ideas:

• Perfect with desserts based on dried fruit, apricot tarts, or cream desserts.
• Splendid alongside blue cheeses like sweet Gorgonzola or Roquefort.
• Also interesting with foie gras or sweet and sour dishes for a refined contrast.
• Try it with medium-bitter dark chocolate, which enhances its fruity component.

Storage and aging: how to store Passito di Pantelleria DOC “Nes” 2022 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 (0.5l - tin tube)

Thanks to its high alcohol content and sugar concentration, this passito has an excellent aging potential. To maintain its qualities:

• Store the bottle in a cool place away from light.
• Maintain a constant temperature, preferably between 10°C and 15°C.
• Keep the bottle horizontal if it has a cork stopper, to prevent air from entering.

Once opened, it can be enjoyed even after a few days if well sealed and refrigerated. Over time, the Passito di Pantelleria DOC “Nes” 2022 - Cantine Pellegrino 1880 further evolves, developing more complex notes of honey, dried fruit, and spices, offering increasingly intense sensory experiences.