Golden yellow with a bright orange tinge. Explosive, highly perfumed aromas of ripe apricot, peach, citrus fruits, cinnamon and pepper. Pure and clean, with impressive depth to the ripe citrus and peach flavors; an undercurrent of tropical fruits contributes volume and flesh. The concentrated, very long finish throws off notes of lavender and acacia honey. Perhaps the best-ever Ben Rye, amazingly intense yet elegant and impeccably balanced.. Depending on the vintage, it's made up of grapes from 3 to 11 vineyards located in different sub-zones on the island of Pantelleria, one of my favorite wine spots and a uniquely beautiful region.

The folks at Donnafugata, one of Sicily’s most dynamic wineries, have inaugurated a new winery on the volcanic island of Pantelleria fully dedicated to the production of their precious Ben Rye passito. The amber-colored wine is vibrant, brilliant and its purity of aromas is outstanding. Dried figs, apricot, honey, almond and fragrant herbs are delivered in thick, generous layers. Tingly acidity cleans the palate and powers a long, delectable finish. Made from sun-dried Zibibbo grapes, this wine is the best of its kind and can be paired with sugary treats or, better yet, with Stilton blue cheese or gorgonzola.——M.L.(2/1/2008)—— 95