7 February 2010

SURPRISE OF THE SUMMER

A knowledgable foodie friend came to stay this summer for a couple of nights and brought a few welcome bottles of wine, as good friends do. One of these bottles really captured my imagination. It was a Zibibbo di Sicilia, a delight fully refreshing fruity wine with layers of tart spice and truly zingy power. I have always been a fan of slightly sweeter wines to end a good dinner even if there's no dessert (the wine can stand alone) and this came up trumps. I visited Sicily in late 2008, and during my enchanting two weeks there went to several fine vineyards. Sicily oozes with history and the vineyards harbour grape varieties that are ancient and unique. This Zibibbo varietal grows in the western region of the island and is made and bottled by Pellegrino, and imported into New Zealand by a Touch of Italy. It's really worth seeking out!