Unveiling exceptional wines: the Sweet and Fortified Revelations of CMB 2023

At this year’s Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (CMB), two extraordinary discoveries took center stage in the Sweet and Fortified Wine Session: the fortified wonder, Moscatel de Setúbal Superior 2009 from Casa Ermelinda Freitas, and the delicate sweet melody, Tramp Passione Volonta’ 2022 by Bragagnolo vini Passiti.

Moscatel de Setúbal Superior 2009 – International Revelation Fortified Wine

Let’s start in the heart of Palmela, Portugal, where Casa Ermelinda Freitas, an emblem of winemaking since 1920, proudly resides. Their Moscatel de Setúbal Superior 2009, recently crowned the International Revelation Fortified Wine by the CMB, epitomizes their dedication to crafting exceptional wines. The golden-hued Moscatel is a marvel, offering a richly complex taste reminiscent of honey and orange peel perfectly harmonized with woody undertones. As it graces the palate, it unfolds into a full, sweet indulgence, balanced by a refreshing acidity that leaves a lasting impression. Harvested in late September, this exquisite Moscatel matures for nine years in French oak barrels, boasting an alcohol content of 18% vol., with a recommended aging potential of up to 50 years. A remarkable choice with desserts, sweetmeats, or as an excellent aperitif, this wine is nurtured in the unique terroir of Fernando Pó, Palmela, amidst 550 hectares of vineyards. The sandy, water-rich soil and gentle breezes contributes to the vineyard’s success, making Casa Ermelinda Freitas a name synonymous with remarkable wines.

Tramp Passione Volonta’ 2022 – International Revelation Sweet Wine

Now, let’s traverse to Piedmont, Italy, home to the hidden gem of winemaking— Passiti’s Tramp Passione Volonta’ 2022. Crafted from the rare Gewurztraminer grape variety, this wine earned the prestigious International Revelation award in the sweet wine category at Concours Mondial, a testament to its exceptional qualities. The name “Tram” translates to “vagabond”, a fitting title for this grape variety which is not originally from Piedmont but found a comfortable home in Valle Bagnario, the “valley of passitos”, just like a vagabond chooses to live where they feel most at ease.

Passiti’s Tramp Passione Volonta’ 2022 is a rarity due to its careful balance of aromatic compounds. While Gewurztraminer is known for its abundance of free terpenes, this wine strikes the perfect balance, allowing non-free terpenes to transition over time. This characteristic contributes to the wine’s longevity and unique evolution as it ages gracefully.

Crafted using traditional winemaking methods at Bragagnolo Passiti wines, the 2022 was the first vintage of Tram Passione Volonta and its exceptional quality was swiftly recognized by the international panel of Concours Mondial.  The owner and winemaker Silvio Bragagnolo is deeply honored by CMB’s recognition:

“This award stands as a major milestone in producing this distinctive wine, showcasing our dedication and expertise in passito wine production. Our journey to enhance and globally promote passitos, wines with a history spanning over a millennium, is ongoing.”

In the world of wine, discoveries like the Moscatel de Setúbal Superior 2009 and Tramp Passione Volonta’ 2022 truly steal the spotlight, gracing us with their essence and artistry. Their International Revelation awards from CMB cement their status as not just wines but as remarkable tales in a bottle, deserving every bit of appreciation and recognition on the global stage.

Valentina Phillips