Vintage: 2011
Producer:Azienda Agricola Pupillo
Region: Siracusa, Sicilly
Grape(s):100% Moscato di Siracusa
Profile: Nutty, honey comb, baked pear, and wild flowers. Unapologetically sweet, with balanced acidity and medium alcohol. Did I say delicious?
Production notes: Pickers troll the vineyards in late September, carefully selecting the ripest bunches by hand. Undergoes an aromatic-preserving, cold, slow fermentation in stainless steel.
About this wine :Moscato di Siracusa may rightfully lay claim to being Italy’s oldest wine, as well as one of the most ancient in the world. It traces its origins to the Greek colonization of Sicily in 8th century BC. Known as Pollio Siracusano, it is believed to have been brought to Siracusa from Thrace. The Latin historian Zenobius made reference to it as early as the 1st century BC. And in fact two Moscato di Siracusa won international awards in Paris in 1900. But despite this pedigree, the production was all but abandoned by Italian winemakers. When it received DOC status in 1973, there was no one making it and only half a hectare of eligible vineyards. In fact, the Italian Trade Commission’s web site laments “Wine lovers can only hope that one day this outstanding product of the soil of Sicily will one day reappear in the cellars and on the tables of those who appreciate fine beverages. For the moment, all that is left is the memory.”
Regional Foods/ Food pairings: Desserts, particularly nutty/ citrusy. Anything pistachio or almond based. Great for a dessert cheese plate and oh so good with the pear boudino.
