Marco De Bartoli Marsala Superiore Riserva Oro 0.5L 2009

De Bartoli Marsala Superiore Riserva Oro 2009 is a benchmark Sicilian dessert wine that shows just how refined and complex Marsala can be. Crafted from Grillo and enriched with a traditional ‘mistella’ of fresh grape must and brandy from the same grapes, it offers exceptional depth, balance, and length in a compact 0.5L format. This is not a cooking wine, but a contemplative, cellar‑worthy Marsala made to honor the classic style of the region.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2009 Riserva Oro shows a deep golden amber hue, with burnished highlights that hint at its age and concentration. The nose is intensely expressive: dried apricots, candied orange peel, caramelized nuts, and honeyed figs mingle with notes of toasted almonds, vanilla, and a subtle saline, almost sea-breeze character that reflects its coastal origin. On the palate, this Marsala is rich and enveloping yet surprisingly poised, with a harmonious interplay of sweetness, vibrant acidity, and gentle warmth from the fortification. Expect layers of dried fruits, toffee, dates, orange marmalade, and sweet spices, supported by a fine, nutty backbone and a persistent, slightly savory finish. The 2009 vintage has developed beautifully, and while it is already drinking at a luxurious peak, its structure and oxidative style give it excellent aging potential over the next decade or more, gaining further complexity in bottle.

Production
Sourced from Grillo vines in western Sicily, the Marsala Superiore Riserva Oro 2009 draws its character from sun-drenched coastal vineyards rooted in limestone- and sand-rich soils that enhance both salinity and aromatic intensity. Grapes are typically harvested by hand at optimal ripeness to capture concentration of flavor and natural acidity. The base wine is produced traditionally, then enriched with a ‘mistella’—a fortifying blend made from fresh Grillo grape must and brandy distilled from the same grapes—respecting the most authentic Marsala methods. Long, oxidative aging in wood casks further deepens its color, complexity, and signature nutty, caramelized profile.

Food & Serving
This Marsala Superiore Riserva Oro shines alongside classic Sicilian pastries such as cannoli, almond biscuits, and cassata, as well as desserts featuring dried fruits, caramel, or nuts. It is equally compelling with blue cheeses, aged hard cheeses (like Parmigiano Reggiano or mature pecorino), and even as a meditative after-dinner wine on its own. Serve slightly chilled, around 12–14°C (54–57°F), to keep the sweetness in balance and highlight its layered aromas. A brief decant of 15–30 minutes can help it open up, especially if the bottle has been cellared, revealing more of its intricate oxidative and spicy nuances.

Producer
Marco De Bartoli is widely regarded as one of the great revivers of traditional, high-quality Marsala, challenging the industrial image that had long overshadowed the region. Working from his family estate in western Sicily, he championed native varieties such as Grillo and focused on artisan methods, strict vineyard selection, and long, patient aging in cask. His work placed Marsala back on the map as a serious wine for the table and the cellar, and today the De Bartoli name is synonymous with authenticity, craftsmanship, and the rebirth of premium Sicilian fortified wines.

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