Pellegrino Old John Marsala Superiore Riserva Ambra Semisecco NV (75cl)

Old John is a Marsala from Pellegrino, a family producing Marsala in Sicily since 1880. It honours John Woodhouse, who pioneered fortification of local wines for export to England in 1773. Grapes are Grillo, Catarratto and Inzolia from vineyards inland of Marsala and Mazara del Vallo. Harvest begins in mid-September at advanced ripeness; fermentation is halted with rectified grape spirit and cooked grape must is added. Ageing lasts 48 months in large oak barrels, with at least 6 months in barrique. It is intense amber, with aromas of apricot, carob, thyme and black pepper, and a full, warm palate of apricot and candied fruit. Pairs with Sicilian pastries with ricotta and pastry cream, or brown sugar-frosted quinces wrapped in Sicilian black swine ham.