Mandrarossa Serapias Passito di Pantelleria 2022

Mandrarossa Serapias Passito di Pantelleria

Region: Sicily, Italy

Vintage: 2022

Bottle size: 50cl

Grape: Zibibbo

ABV: 14%

The Serapias is defined by a distinctive minerality derived from the volcanic soils of Pantelleria. The nose is intense and expressive, with notes of citrus, rose, jasmine, and dried fruit. On the palate, it is rich and rounded, combining luscious sweetness with vibrant mineral tones and a subtle hint of flint. The finish is elegant and remarkably persistent.

The grapes come from several districts of Pantelleria: Bukkuram, on the island’s western uplands with sea-reaching alberello vineyards; Piana della Ghirlanda in an ancient volcanic caldera; and Monastero, the island’s largest vineyard area in the Zighidì valley with southwest exposure. The sandy soils are volcanic origin, and the vines are alberello Pantesco-trained.

The grapes were hand-harvested into small crates, with a portion left to dry for 20–22 days before being added to the fermenting must of the fresh fruit. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures of 16–18°C. The wine was then aged for approximately 10 months in stainless steel, followed by a further three months in bottle prior to release.

The Mandrarossa wines hail from a selection of the best sites within Cantine Settesoli’s 6,000 hectares of vineyard in southwestern Sicily, planted with 32 grape varieties. The vineyards are split between the cooperative's 2,000 members and cover the area around Selinunte, the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a Greek town founded 2,600 years ago. Cantine Settesoli helps support the restoration of this archaeological site.