2003 Passito di Pantelleria Ben Rye

The 2003 vintage was also very different on Pantelleria compared to Europe. This vintage brought record heat on the mainland but the tiny Mediterranean island saw enough rainfall to replenish water reserves after three years of drought. Flowering started early and Zibibbo vines enjoyed a long growing season. In fact, the quality here is nothing to sneeze at. Ultimately, this dessert wine is slightly demure, shy and closed. As it takes on more air in the glass, the wine begins to show delicate balsam notes and cola with candied fruit and crushed oyster shell. The finish shows piquant spice with nutmeg and dried ginger that adds to the wine's elegant persistence.