Zibibbo of Pantelleria

The term zibibbo is derived from the Arabic word zabib (= raisins). Synonyms of zibibbo are: for the wine, Muscat of Pantelleria or Alexandria, Moscatellone; and for the grapes, Salamonica and Salamanna. The cultivation of Zibibbo is the result of "heroic" viticulture: it takes place in holes dug in the ground, along terraces, to repair the vines from the wind whipping the island 300 days a year. This centuries-old tradition of the island shaped its landscape over time.

In its name the main characteristics of Zibibbo are enclosed: its big elongated grapes, of a particularly sweet pulp, lend themselves very well to the drying process that follows the harvest.

Zibibbo is a wine with a bright, golden yellow colour. The scent is pleasant and fruity, with hints of almond and apricot, while the taste is sweet, aromatic and with a typical almond aftertaste. The alcohol content of the wine is a minimum of 10° and is strictly served cold, at a temperature between 8 and 12°C. As for pairings, as well as being used as an aperitif, Zibibbo is perfect with fish and shellfish, as well as tasty cheeses and blue cheeses. Thanks to its composition, however, its ideal match is with desserts, especially traditional Sicilian cannoli, cassata, almond paste, but also pistachio-based desserts and ice cream.

From Zibibbo vines not only the zibibbo wines are obtained but also the famous Moscato and Passito di Pantelleria; because of its renowned sweetness, the product is also used as a blending wine, especially for of northern Italian wines, which are often deficient in sugar content and aroma.

Before Italy, no country had ever managed to enter an agricultural practice in the list. Only very recently the same recognition was also obtained by the Langhe and Monferrato, areas of great viticulture.

UNESCO has recognized the historical and cultural value, as well as the identity, of this ancient process, and such recognition could revive the production of Zibibbo and give impulse to the recovery of abandoned vineyards, convincing young people to stay instead of seeking opportunities outside the island. Many on Pantelleria hope that the UNESCO recognition might foster a renaissance of the outstanding quality wine Pantelleria Passito, brought worldwide by major brands as Donnafugata.