Wine: Barone Montalto Passivento Rosso

Country: Italy

Region: Sicily

Designation: Terre Siciliane IGT

Producer: Barone Montalto

Grape Varietal: Nero d’Avola

ABV: 13.5%

Type: Red

Code: 1966

Tasting Note

 Full-bodied, round and smooth, with notes of ripe blackberries, plums, cherries, figs, and hints of spice and tobacco. Well integrated tannins provide structure and a long, lingering finish.

Producer

Founded in 2000 in Santa Ninfa, Sicily, Barone Montalto strives to produce genuine Sicilian wines, true to their origin. They believe this is only possible by having an understanding of the local, ancient wine varieties and a passion for the unique Sicilian terroir. The company also works closely with local farmers to identify international grape varieties like Nero d’Avola which thrive in the Valle de Belice.

Winemaking

Nero d'Avola grapes from the Belice Valley area are selected for this wine. The peculiarity of the winemaking with Passivento method is based on a partial drying of the fruit on the vine. After harvesting, the drying process continues in an airy outdoor room known as the fruit chamber where the skillful control of ventilation assist the grapes in reaching the ideal level of dehydration before pressing and fermenting in stainless steel tanks. Then, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, which softens the acidity and adds further complexity. Finally, it is aged for up to 6 months in French oak barrels before bottling.

Fun Fact

In 1968 a massive earthquake shook the Valle de Belice destroying much of the area. One of the affected towns Gibellino was rebuilt several years later in a nearby location. The original site of the town became an artistic project by Alberto Burri who created a permanent memorial called Cretto di Gibellina. The remains of the town were concreted over with recreated streets on top of the rubble and collapsed buildings. The memorial today is known for is contemplative eerie stillness when walking the deserted streets from before the earthquake.

Food pairing

It is suitable for rich dishes, going equally well with foie gras patè, red meats and stews. The Passivento style also perfectly matches with traditional pork dishes and strong cheeses.

Awards & Accolades

Silver Medal       International Wine Challenge

Silver Medal       Mondus Vini

88 points             Decanter