Aleatico Dolce IGT 2008 (Bio)

  The Aleatico Dolce is considered one of Puglia's most aromatic specialties and originates from a grape variety genetically closely related to Muscat, which explains its distinctive, almost perfumed bouquet. To preserve the fragile freshness and the varietal notes of rose petals and lychees in their unadulterated form, the winery deliberately avoids the use of wooden barrels and ages the wine exclusively in steel tanks. This conserves the pure essence of the sun-ripened grapes, which exude fascinating hints of dried apricots and exotic spices alongside dark berries in the glass.

On the palate, this red dessert wine delights with a perfect balance between natural fruit sweetness and a vital acidity, giving it a buoyant lightness despite its density and preventing it from feeling cloying. The velvety tannins provide structure without disturbing the soft melt, making it the ideal companion for the traditional Puglian almond pastries known as 'Pasta di Mandorle'. It harmonizes equally well with desserts based on dark wild berries or as a sophisticated, sweet contrast to a spicy blue cheese. - Gerardo [TS10/09]