Marsala DOC Flashcards
(26 cards)
Why did Marsala fall out of favour in the second half of the 20th Century?
It became a victim of its own popularity and quality declined.
What was done in the 1980’s to revive Marsala?
Regulations on quality were introduced.
Where is Marsala DOC located?
On the western corner of Sicilia.
What is the production status of Marsala DOC?
It is the island’s most productive winegrowing area and one of the most densely planted winegrowing areas in all of Italy.
What is the climate of Marsala DOC?
Hot Mediterranean - one of the warmest and driest parts of Sicilia.
Where are the vineyards of Marsala DOC situated?
Most lie on coastal plains and low-elevation hills further inland.
What are the most important grapes in production of Marsala?
Grillo and Catarrato - others are permitted.
Which grape is regarded as making the higher quality Marsala wine?
Grillo.
What does Grillo contribute to Marsala wines?
Acidity, texture and aromas and is capable of ripening to high sugar levels.
How does Catarrato differ from Grillo?
It is higher yielding but does not ripen to high sugar levels as Grillo. They therefore require more alcohol during fortification.It also has a tendency to oxidise quickly.
What flavours does oxidisation give to Marsala made from Catarrato?
Nutty flavours and a darker colour to the wines.
What is the structure of Marsala wines?
Body - Full;
Acidity - Fresh;
ABV - High (Fortified);
Sweetness - variable.
How is the ABV of Marsala boosted?
By adding neutral grape spirit. Also stops the fermentation.
What is “ in perpetuum” related to Marsala?
It means that the wine is aged in casks which are never emptied. Only a portion is removed and then replaced with younger wine which is assimilated. (Like Solera sherry system)
What are common descriptors of Marsala wines?
Walnut, date, black tea, treacle, tobacco, spice, almond, sea salt, caramel honey, coffee and resin.
What determines the style of a Marsala wine?
By what is added and how the wine is aged.
What are the two broad categories of Marsala wines?
Marsala Vergine and Marsala conciati.
What is Marsala Vergine?
A dry wine made from white grapes only and must be aged in partially filled barrels. Aside from the spirit added at fortification no other additions can be made.
When is a Marsala Vergine labelled as Riserva or Stravecchio?
If it ages for at least ten years in barrel.
How does Marsala conciati differ from Marsala Vergine?
It allows for the addition of cooked grape must, fortified grape must or grape spirit to bolster the colour, flavour and mouthfeel of the wine.
What are Marsala Superiore and Marsala Fine?
Both examples of Marsala conciati. They are made in many styles with a wide range of sweetness levels and ageing regimens.
What is the % of production for Superiore and Fine Marsala wines?
Superiore - 20%;
Fine - 80%.
What is the ageing requirement for Marsala Superiore?
Must mature in wooden barrels for at least two years.
When can a Superiore be released as a Riserva?
After four years of wood maturation.
