I discovered this wine at the Lidl Italian and Iberian Wine Tours tasting and subsequently purchased for deeper exploration. Zibibbo, better known globally as Muscat of Alexandria is one of the oldest genetically unmodified vines in existence, a heritage that lends an intriguing depth to this wine produced by Carlo Pellegrino in Sicily.
Initially, my re-encounter with this wine was underwhelming as the flavours did not immediately resonate as remembered. However, the true character of the wine emerged once it had warmed up considerably, revealing an aroma rich in strong floral notes, notably honeysuckle, accompanied by an exotic array of tropical fruits.
The palate is dry, yet it effuses ripe peach and candied orange peel with a hint of subtle mango, bringing a complexity that’s almost getting towards Gewürztraminer in style. This Zibibbo is an excellent companion to aromatic Asian dishes, particularly Chinese or Thai cuisine, which we enjoyed.
Because it was part of a Lidl wine tour, this particular 2022 vintage is no longer available but might come back next year. For those seeking a similar experience, Cantina Orsogna’s Zibibbo Maganza Luna Gaia, found during the Ellis tasting, offers a comparable taste and is available from independent retailers at around £15.00. The Lidl version was £8.99 which was great value. Additionally, Waitrose’s Loved & Found Gelber Muskateller presents a similar style. These dry Muscat wines are well-worth seeking out for something dry yet flavoursome.
