VINEYARD | Ustica is an island cubed. We are far from everything, even the world, but very close to the purest and wildest concept of beauty. An island of only 8.5 square kilometers, surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here we find only one wine cellar, Hibiscus, which from the contrade Spalmatore and Tramontana, a few hectares of vineyard bordered by dry stone walls, lashed by salty winds and kissed by the sun, give life to this surprising reality from the peculiar volcanic soils. In this case, the zibibbo grapes are vinified in steel at a controlled temperature with the addition of grapes dried in the sun on racks.
PERSON | We are in the realm of a passionate agronomist couple to say the least, Margherita Longo and Vito Barbera, at the helm of this organic farm has been producing high-end wines with a happy artisanal edge since the 1970s. A small, modern winery, coexisting within the pleasant farmhouse property, allows for precision processing in the name of goodness and pleasantness. We were enchanted by the entire range. But not only wine is produced, also oil, and we point out the wonderful Ustica lentils, very small in size but very tasty on the palate, with perfect hold in the kitchen.
WINE | A real gem. The aromas are bewitching between memories of Mediterranean scrub, helichrysum, but also caper leaf and cedar. The sensations are light, ethereal, with raises of candied ginger and infused tea. The mouthfeel is incredible for perfect balance between sweetness, acidity and savoriness. We find notes of citrus, herbs, apricot sensations, but also a finish of oregano and mint. Marine and fruity echoes follow, the drinkability is incredible. Delicate and deep: it excites even those who do not drink sweet wines.
