Zibibbo WINES

Zibibbo is a grape variety name and the wine obtained from the grape. The grape was originally from Egypt and was introduced by the Phoenicians. The vine producing the grapes is called the "vite ad alberello" or the head-trained bush vines. It mostly grows in the island of Pantelleria, Sicily. (continue)

Zibibbo WINE

Zibibbo is a grape variety name and the wine obtained from the grape. The grape was originally from Egypt and was introduced by the Phoenicians. The vine producing the grapes is called the "vite ad alberello" or the head-trained bush vines. It mostly grows in the island of Pantelleria, Sicily. The word is derived from the Arabic Zabib that holds the meaning raisin. Other names for the grape include Salamonica and Salamanna. As wine variety, it is known as Muscat of Pantelleria or Alexandria or Moscatellone.

Vines and wine making

The vines are grown on the ground, along terraces to protect them from the strong winds that are on the island most of the time. The grapes are big and oblong and have a distinct yellowish green color. The grapes are used for wine production or direct consumption and also for drying. It is also used as a blending wine since most northern Italian wines don’t have sweetness or aroma.The zibibbo grapes are picked at night to preserve freshness and color and kept as cold as possible during the fermentation process. The wine is tank fermented to retain the aromatic fruit intensity.
The wine has a bright golden yellow color. The scent of the wine is fruity with a hint of almond and apricot. It is sweet and aromatic with an almond aftertaste. The wine is naturally low in alcohol compared to other wines.

Servings

The wine is best served chilled at a temperature of between 8 and 12 degrees.
Zibibbo is ideal for being served with fish and shellfish. Also great with desserts and tasty cheeses and blue cheeses. Best for traditional Sicilian Cannoli, cassata, almond paste and pistachio desserts and ice cream.
Moscato di Pantelleria, a product of the grape is a great summer garden sipping wine. It is a perfect match for savory dishes having a mild sweetness.
The people who prefer sweet wines opt for Zibibbo wines.