PASSITO DI PANTELLERIA
heroic viticulture
Passito di Pantelleria
DOP PANTELLERIA // BUGEBER
Pantelleria, the largest island off the coast of Sicily, stands as Italy’s southernmost outpost in the heart of the Mediterranean—a natural bridge and strategic crossroads between the Sicilian shores and the African continent. Over the centuries, its unique location has made it a meeting point for cultures, traditions, and viticultural knowledge.
Grape variety
moscato d’Alessandria
Location of the vineyards
Pantelleria (TP)
Alcohol
14,5%
Bottle size
750 ml
Service temperature
14 ° C
Pairings
Delightful when served with fruit-based desserts, tarts, or traditional Sicilian dry pastries, yet equally intriguing when paired with medium- or long-aged cheeses.
Passito di Pantelleria
DOP PANTELLERIA // BUGEBER
Pantelleria, the largest island off the coast of Sicily, stands as Italy’s southernmost outpost in the heart of the Mediterranean—a natural bridge and strategic crossroads between the Sicilian shores and the African continent. Over the centuries, its unique location has made it a meeting point for cultures, traditions, and viticultural knowledge.
Grape variety
moscato d’Alessandria
Location of the vineyards
Pantelleria (TP)
Alcohol
14,5%
Bottle size
750 ml
Service temperature
14 ° C
Pairings
Delightful when served with fruit-based desserts, tarts, or traditional Sicilian dry pastries, yet equally intriguing when paired with medium- or long-aged cheeses.
A Unique Microcosm
Its dramatic contrasts of light capture the eye even from above: rolling hills and geometric terraces rising against the endless blue of the sea. On this island surrounded by water, a strange and magnetic harmony emerges from the sharp black volcanic rocks, the green slopes braving the wind, and the stunning turquoise of the Specchio di Venere and the surrounding sea.
The environment of Pantelleria is truly one of a kind. Here, nature has created a unique microcosm where seemingly opposing elements combine in perfect harmony: the fire of volcanic earth, the constant caress of the winds, the power of the sea, and the gentle warmth of the African sun.
Spectacular is the cultivation of the vineyards, planted with determination in every last available centimeter under extreme conditions. The geometric terraces, perched dramatically above the sea and sheltered from the fierce winds, are supported by scenic dry-stone walls that shape the landscape like a collective work of art crafted over millennia. Here, the vineyards are cultivated strictly using the traditional alberello pantesco (bush vine) method. This form of vine training, recognized by UNESCO as a Traditional Agricultural Practice, represents the perfect adaptation to the island’s extreme climatic conditions.
The alberello pantesco is not merely a training method but a true viticultural philosophy shaped by the territory. It shields the vines from strong winds, creates natural shade with its foliage to protect the grapes from excessive sunlight, and helps the plant withstand drought, as its compact form reduces transpiration.
Pantelleria owes its viticultural vocation to the Arabs who settled and developed the island, introducing Moscato di Alessandria—locally known as Zibibbo. The name itself derives from the Arabic “zabib,” meaning raisin, already hinting at the extraordinary destiny of this remarkable grape variety.
From this heritage emerges a true jewel: a wine inseparably linked to the island’s unique environment, impossible to reproduce anywhere else. The viticultural tradition of Pantelleria is a cultural legacy, handed down through generations, preserving ancient secrets and techniques.
The Passito di Pantelleria reveals itself as a wine of extraordinary concentration and complexity. Its color shines in a brilliant golden amber, while the bouquet is intense and honeyed, with notes of dried fruits—apricots, figs, and dates. Deeply expressive of its terroir, on the palate it is velvety and enveloping, with sweetness perfectly balanced by the lively acidity typical of Zibibbo. Its structure is substantial yet never cloying, enhanced by a savory minerality reminiscent of the volcanic soils. The lingering aromatic persistence leaves lasting impressions of orange blossom honey, candied fruit, and balsamic undertones.
Thanks to its concentrated structure and harmonious sugar–acidity profile, Passito di Pantelleria has remarkable aging potential. Over time, it develops refined tertiary notes—evoking spirit-soaked fruit and caramel—while retaining freshness and elegance throughout.
A Philosophy that Blends Tradition and Sustainability
The Passito di Pantelleria demonstrates its versatility through refined pairings: from traditional Sicilian desserts such as cannoli and cassata, to fruit tarts. Among cheeses, it reaches its height with Gorgonzola DOP, Roquefort, or other intensely flavored blue cheeses. It is also the perfect wine for moments of contemplation.
In crafting Passito di Pantelleria, we follow a philosophy that unites respect for tradition with environmental sustainability, employing agricultural practices that safeguard the island’s unique ecosystem. The result is uncompromising quality: a wine that captures the very soul of Pantelleria—the strength of the volcano, the sweetness of the sun, the caress of the wind, and the wisdom of a people who have transformed an extreme environment into the garden of the Mediterranean.
The label
The whiteness of the dammusi,
contrasts of light,
and a land embraced by the sea.
Soft colors, of grapes spread beneath the sun.
A knotted hemp tie.
Land of wind—harsh, yet fertile.
