Donnafugata "Ben Rye" Passito di Pantelleria 2021

Wine & Spirits : 96 Points

(4/2023) The 2021 Ben Rye is irresistibly delicious, loaded with flavors of apricot glaze, baked pear, white fig, ginger and molasses. Those flavors are rich yet never heavy or cloying, woven together by lively acidity. Hints of bergamot and curry powder emerge with air and provide balance to the luscious flavors and glossy texture. Serve after dinner with hard, salty cheeses.

Wine Spectator : 94 Points

(2/29/2024) A rich, luxurious sweetie, with flavors of orange glacee, pink grapefruit sorbet, spun honey, apple peel and butterscotch melting on the palate like cotton candy. A bright tang of citrusy acidity and a touch of salinity give this good cut and form, while fragrant hints of lavender, cardamom, white chocolate and Earl Grey waft in on the long, lasting finish. Drink now through 2034.

Vinous - Eric Guido : 94 Points

(6/2023) The 2021 Ben Rye is a total pleasure, seducing with a bouquet that mixes sweet smoke with tangerine, mint leaf and clove. Like pure nectar on the palate, this envelopes all it touches in a texturally ripe orchard fruits and tropical melon. Sweet spices and sour citrus add contrast toward the close. It finishes spicy and long, leaving a dusty inner floral sensation and hints of candied ginger and lime. Ben Rye is always a total pleasure and, in my opinion, one of the top dessert wines produced in Italy. This varietal Zibibbo finishes at 197 grams of residual sugar per liter. Drinking Window: 2023 - 2030.