Description
History
Muffato della Sala originates from the historic Castello della Sala estate, owned by the Antinori family and located in Umbria, approximately 18 kilometres from Orvieto. The imposing medieval castle overlooks an estate covering around 600 hectares, including 229 hectares of vineyards, characterised by clay and limestone soils rich in ancient marine fossils. The area’s distinctive microclimate, influenced by temperature variations and autumn morning mists, creates favourable conditions for the development of noble rot, an essential element in producing this wine. The first vintage was released in 1987, when Muffato della Sala was made from Sauvignon Blanc, Grechetto and Drupeggio. Over the years, the blend evolved to include five grape varieties, each contributing complementary aromatic characteristics. Production remains closely linked to vintage conditions and the quality of botrytised grapes, making every harvest a distinctive expression of its terroir.
Grape variety
Sauvignon Blanc, Grechetto, Traminer, Sémillon, Riesling.
Vinification
The 2024 growing season featured a warm yet balanced summer, with significant day-night temperature variations encouraging gradual grape ripening. During October and November, frequent morning mists created ideal conditions for the development of Botrytis cinerea, naturally concentrating sugars and aromatic compounds. Harvest began around mid-October with Traminer, followed by Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, and concluded in early November with Grechetto. Grapes were harvested by hand through several successive passes through the same vineyards, selecting bunches according to their degree of noble rot development. Following further selection at the winery, the grapes were gently crushed without destemming and subsequently pressed. The must fermented for approximately 18 days at a controlled temperature of 17 °C. The resulting wine, still naturally sweet, was transferred to 228-litre vessels, where it matured for several months before completing its ageing in stainless steel.
Alcohol content
To be verified on the bottle label.
Tasting notes
Bright yellow with luminous greenish reflections highlighting the freshness of the vintage. The nose reveals a broad, elegant and complex bouquet of pineapple, mango and papaya, complemented by dried apricot, yellow peach and candied citrus peel. Delicate nuances of fresh ginger enrich the aromatic profile, adding vibrancy and depth. The palate is enveloping, smooth and harmonious, with pronounced yet beautifully balanced sweetness supported by vibrant acidity that brings freshness and energy. The texture is rich and velvety, leading to a long, persistent finish with elegant notes of citrus marmalade, dried apricot and candied fruit. A remarkably refined sweet wine that combines concentration, freshness and aromatic complexity.
Food pairings
Muffato della Sala 2024 pairs beautifully with blue and aged cheeses such as mature Gorgonzola, Roquefort and Stilton, thanks to the contrast between the wine’s sweetness and the cheeses’ savoury character. It is also excellent with foie gras, refined pâtés and sweet-and-sour preparations. Among desserts, particularly successful pairings include apricot and peach tarts, almond biscuits, traditional Tuscan cantucci, candied fruit pastries and crème brûlée. Its aromatic complexity also makes it an outstanding meditation wine, to be enjoyed slowly after dinner. Best served at approximately 10-12 °C in smaller wine glasses that allow its rich aromatic character to develop.
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