Elba Aleatico Passito DOCG: sweet and fruity meditation wine
Elba Aleatico Passito DOCG is a sweet and aromatic wine produced on the Island of Elba. Made mainly with Aleatico grapes, it is characterized by an intense and complex aromatic profile, which makes it particularly appreciated at an international level.
In 2011, Elba Aleatico Passito obtained the prestigious DOCG recognition which certifies not only the quality of the wine, but also the rigorous "traceability" of the production and the grapes used. This identification has contributed to increasing interest and valorising the product, leading to growing appreciation from both consumers and critics.
Elba Aleatico Passito DOCG represents not only a product of the winemaking tradition of the island of Elba, but is also a symbol of a rich cultural and historical heritage.
The identity card of Elba Aleatico passito DOCG
This wine is sweet, honeyed, intense and fragrant. The main merit of all this is due to the quality of the Aleatico grape, a variety of red grape characterized by fruity and floral aromas. On the nose it presents a strong characterization of fruity notes from which very ripe cherries and berries can be perceived. The floral notes of the rose are perceived, but it is also possible to distinguish the presence of aromas of spices and aromatic herbs. On the palate it is sweet, sugary with a long aromatic persistence. The alcohol content can vary from 15° to 17° depending on the winemaking process.
Origins and historical notes of Elba Aleatico Passito DOCG
The origins of viticulture on the island of Elba date back to ancient times. Already in the Etruscan period, as well as in Roman times, the production of wine was common practice. However, it was during the Renaissance that the island began to gain particular notoriety for its wine production, thanks also to the influence of Tuscan noble families. Aleatico, in particular, has historical roots that are intertwined with the Tuscan winemaking tradition and began to be cultivated on the island in the 16th century.
The Aleatico grape variety probably has Mediterranean origins and is renowned for its fruity and floral aromas. The mild climate, the weather conditions, the particular geology and the geographical position of the island are favorable to the creation of an ideal environment for the cultivation of this variety of vine. Elba Aleatico Passito DOCG is produced with a grape drying method, which gives the wine its characteristic sweetness, enhancing the concentration of flavours.
Its production is the result of centuries of winemaking knowledge and practices that continue to evolve while remaining faithful to local traditions. This wine, with its unique flavor and historical origins, is an authentic treasure of Tuscany.
Production method
The Elba Aleatico passito DOCG is a wine that requires a particularly accurate production process which begins with the selection of the grapes, involving only the use of ripe bunches. The drying takes place on racks or on large trays, in a closed and warm but ventilated environment, such as greenhouses. The evaporation of water concentrates aromas and sugars. Therefore, pressing takes place only after reaching the desired degree of drying. It is in the must that the sugar is concentrated to obtain the classic "raisin" flavor. Refinement in wooden barrels, filtration and bottling are the subsequent phases. Passito from the Island of Elba can also age further in the bottle.
Elba Aleatico Passito: meditation wine but not only
As regards the food-wine pairing, the passito from the Island of Elba goes beautifully with various dishes and preparations. Here are some ideas that go beyond the classic meditation wine:
- Dessert: ideal to accompany fruit-based desserts, tarts, dried fruit, cakes and biscuits. It also pairs well with chocolate desserts, especially dark ones.
- Cheeses: Passito can be served with blue cheeses or hard cheeses, such as pecorino. The sweetness of the wine contrasts perfectly with the saltiness and spiciness of the cheeses.
- Savory food or food with strong flavours: it could be a gamble, but passito from the Island of Elba can be combined with savory dishes or appetizers based on pâtés and terrines, creating a nice contrast of flavours. Also excellent to sip with bruschetta with strong sauces, crostini or liver-based appetizers.
- Typical fish cuisine: with typical fish-based dishes of the Island of Elba, passito can be surprising, especially with preparations that include dried fruit or sweet spices.