Founded in 1983 by Giacomo and Gabriella Rallo, Donnafugata has become one of Sicily's most internationally acclaimed wineries. The family combines centuries of winemaking heritage with a pioneering vision for Sicilian viticulture, producing wines that express the island's diverse terroirs. Today, the winery is managed by the second generation, José and Antonio Rallo, with a strong commitment to sustainability and the preservation of indigenous grape varieties.

Ben Ryé, whose name means "Son of the Wind" in Arabic, is Donnafugata's iconic sweet wine from the volcanic island of Pantelleria, situated between Sicily and North Africa. The wine is made exclusively from Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria) grown as low bush vines ("alberello Pantesco"), a UNESCO-recognised agricultural practice. The grapes are harvested by hand, with a portion dried naturally under the Mediterranean sun before being added back during fermentation to maximise aromatic complexity. The wine is aged for approximately eight months in stainless steel followed by at least 12 months in bottle before release. Ben Ryé is widely regarded as one of Italy's greatest sweet wines.

Made from 100% Zibibbo, the 2018 Ben Ryé is a richly concentrated dessert wine that perfectly balances sweetness with remarkable freshness.

Brilliant golden amber in colour, it displays an intensely aromatic bouquet of dried apricot, candied orange peel, mango and figs, layered with notes of Mediterranean herbs, acacia honey, dates, saffron and citrus marmalade. The palate is luscious and silky, yet vibrant acidity prevents any heaviness. Flavours of candied peach, raisins, sweet almond, orange blossom and honey unfold across a richly textured palate, supported by a distinctive saline and volcanic mineral character. The finish is exceptionally long, complex and fresh, making Ben Ryé one of the world's benchmark passito wines.

" So much dried apricot with tangerines, cocoa, sultanas and hints of salted peanuts. Some smoke and tarte tatin, too. Full-bodied with a very sweet palate that's like Seville-orange marmalade. Vibrant finish. Complex. " -- James Suckling

" Made with 100% dried Zibibbo grapes, this iconic dessert wine opens with aromas of mature apricot, acacia honey and orange jam. The savoury, balanced palate offers candied peach, date, sweet almond and cinnamon. The finish is long and persistent." -- Wine Enthusiast