Barraco Terre Siciliane Zibibbo

Truly extraordinary

I love Cos' zibibbo and wanted to make a comparison with Barraco's, but I thought it was unlikely to challenge it. How wrong I was! This wine is one of the most complex whites I have tried in a long, long time. It starts with a telltale aroma of apricots and nectarines, but that is just the beginning: with air —and over two evenings— the wine kept shape-shifting and adding aromas and flavours, there was lime and lime-peel. There was something akin to chutney and a gorgeous, very clear aroma of cumin. Salt, seaweed, ginger, mint and honey, even if the palate is fully dry, even a touch tannic and mineral. This is 5 years old and it shows in its development, but I have the feeling that it will continue improving for quite a few years more.

Not a patch on the 2013

A disappointment compared with the 2013, which was masterful. That may have something to do with bottle age, though, as it smelled and tasted unresolved and harsh, but still intriguing. Wait for a few years? I rather go back to the 2013 to be sure.

Ideal for a warm evening meal, preferably al-fresco

Delicate floral aroma with a surprisingly rich flavour of white berries, lemons and smoked almonds. Goes very well with creamy, seafood pasta dishes. Oh to be Sicilian.

Simply superb!

An outstanding wine with depth and great mineralogy. Wonderful deep colour reminiscent of a fine burgundy. Great value in my opinion.

One of my all time faves

Nino Barraco is a wizard, and this is my personal favourite wine of his. So expressive, so fresh, such incredible value!