COS Zibibbo in Pithos

Vintage: 2023

Origin: Vittoria, Sicily, Italy

Grapes: Zibibbo

Alcohol: 12%

Here's something truly special from COS - their Zibibbo fermented and aged in buried amphorae, because sometimes the old ways really are the best ways. Made from 100% Zibibbo (that's what Sicilians call Muscat of Alexandria), this skin-contact white wine comes from young vines growing just 12 metres above sea level near Marsala, where the contrast between scorching days and cool nights gives the grapes serious character. The colour is gorgeous - think amber-gold that catches the light like liquid honey. On the nose, you'll find this enchanting mix of clover honey, jasmine, and apricot blossom that's almost intoxicating. The palate is where things get really interesting though - vibrant and fresh with that gentle phenolic grip from the skin contact, bringing notes of apple and peach skin, dried spices, and honeydew melon all dancing together. Ten months in those buried clay vessels (the same method used by the world's first winemakers) gives it this incredible texture and complexity that's both ancient and completely modern. It's rich without being heavy, exotic without being weird - basically everything you want from a serious skin contact white wine that actually tastes as good as it sounds.