What kind of wine is Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l)?
The Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l) is a sweet meditation wine that embodies the history and soul of western Sicily. Produced from Moscato Bianco grapes cultivated between Partinico and Terrasini, in the province of Palermo, it originates from a land kissed by the sun and caressed by sea breezes, factors that contribute to its unique character. It is an aromatic and velvety wine, where the sweetness of dried grapes is balanced by a fresh mineral note that evokes the warmth and light of the island.Vintage Details
The 2013 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate, with a warm but ventilated summer that favored a gradual and uniform ripening of the grapes. Temperature fluctuations between day and night allowed the preservation of the typical varietal aromas of Moscato and the development of intense and persistent notes without excessive sweetness. This combination resulted in a harmonious passito, where olfactory complexity blends with a pleasant freshness.Winemaking and Aging
The grapes destined for Moscato dello Zucco are hand-harvested during the hottest months, selecting only the best bunches. After harvesting, the grapes are left to dry naturally to concentrate sugars and aromas. Fermentation occurs slowly, at a controlled temperature, in stainless steel, preserving the aromatic purity of the grape variety. This is followed by a period of aging in the bottle, which enriches the wine with elegance and complexity, making it an authentic treasure of Sicilian tradition.Tasting Notes
Color
Visually, the Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l) presents a luminous golden color, with amber reflections that testify to its concentration and the drying process of the grapes.Nose
The aroma is intense and enveloping, with hints of dried apricot, honey, candied citrus, and orange blossoms. Notes of Mediterranean herbs and a mineral touch also emerge, adding balance and depth.Taste
On the palate, it is sweet but not cloying: the sugary richness is balanced by a vibrant freshness and a slight saline note that extends its persistence. The finish is elegant, with a long fruity and spicy trail that invites the next sip.What dishes to pair with Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l)
This passito lends itself to multiple pairings, perfect for those who love contrasts and those who seek harmony between wine and food. Ideal with:- Almond paste desserts, cassata, and Sicilian cannoli
- Blue cheeses such as sweet gorgonzola or roquefort
- Liver pâté and foie gras
- As a meditation wine, served slightly chilled, it is also perfect on its own
Storage and aging: how to store Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l)
This passito, although a sweet and concentrated wine, retains a certain delicacy. It is advisable to store it in a cool place, away from light, at a constant temperature of about 12-14°C. Once opened, the bottle can maintain its aromatic integrity for a few days if recorked and placed in the refrigerator. The Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l) can evolve in the bottle for 2-3 years, developing even softer and honeyed notes. It is a wine to be savored calmly, telling the story of the rebirth of a great Sicilian oenological tradition with every sip.Cusumano
The History of Cusumano Winery Cusumano winery is an emblem of Sicilian wine, a reality that combines winemaking tradition and innovation. Founded in 1963, the winery has grown thanks to the dedication of the Cusumano family, who have successfully modernized production processes while keeping the...
How to best open and serve Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l)
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l), it's important to position the bottle correctly. If it has been stored horizontally, place it upright for a few hours. This allows any sediment present to settle at the bottom, ensuring a clearer pour.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The serving temperature is crucial to enhance the aromas and complex taste of this Sicilian passito wine. Serve the Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano slightly chilled, between 10°C and 12°C. A lower temperature would limit the perception of sweetness and aromas; a higher one would make the wine too heavy on the palate.
3. Opening the bottle
Use a lever or screw corkscrew to extract the cork without shaking the bottle. Proceed as follows:
- Remove the capsule with a knife, cutting just below the neck ring.
- Insert the corkscrew worm into the center of the cork and turn gently.
- Extract slowly, avoiding abrupt movements to prevent disturbing the contents.
4. Inspection and first taste
After opening, check the color and aroma of the wine. The Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l) should display golden hues and aromas of honey, candied citrus, and white flowers. Taste a small sip to ensure the wine has no oxidation faults or unpleasant notes.
5. Decanting and oxygenation
Although not always necessary for passito wines, a slight oxygenation can enhance the aromatic complexity of this aged wine. You can pour it into a small decanter or let it breathe in the glass for 10-15 minutes before serving. This step helps to open up the aromas and soften any alcoholic notes.
6. Serving
To best enjoy Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano (0.5l):
- Use sweet wine or tasting glasses, with a small but slightly flared bowl, to concentrate the aromas.
- Pour slowly, tilting the glass to avoid disturbing any sediment.
- Pair the wine with dried fruit desserts, blue cheeses, or Sicilian pastries.
7. Storage after opening
After serving, re-cork the bottle or use an airtight stopper. Store the Sicilia Bianco Passito IGT 'Moscato dello Zucco' 2013 - Cusumano in the refrigerator, upright, to maintain its freshness and aromatic intensity for up to a week. For longer periods, using a vacuum preservation system is recommended.