Orange 2022 Abbazia San Giorgio

Orange 2022 – Abbazia San Giorgio

Wine Overview

Orange 2022 from Abbazia San Giorgio is a natural orange wine made from 100% Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria). Skin contact imparts structure, depth, and an intense color. Fresh, savory, and mineral, it perfectly expresses the volcanic terroir of Pantelleria. Orange contains naturally occurring sulfites.

History and Philosophy

Founded in 2015 by Battista Belvisi and Beppe Fontana, Abbazia San Giorgio focuses on reviving native grape varieties and producing natural wines with identity. Orange was created to showcase a unique orange wine style, highlighting alberello pantesco tradition, Mediterranean aromas, and the island’s mineral character.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vineyards cover 5 hectares on Pantelleria, with 60-year-old vines trained in alberello pantesco, a density of 2,500 vines per hectare, and a yield of 30 q/ha. The volcanic soil is low in organic matter but rich in micro-elements, perfect for producing complex and mineral wines. Cultivation follows biodynamic-inspired practices, without chemical fertilizers or synthetic products.

Winery Approach

Grapes are hand-harvested in early September, destemmed, and crushed. Fermentation is spontaneous, using native yeasts. Aging takes place partly in stainless steel and partly in chestnut barrels for at least six months, without filtration, fining, or added sulfur, preserving aroma integrity and freshness.

Tasting Notes and Pairings

Color: deep orange with amber highlights.
Nose: dried apricot, nuts, honey, and mineral notes.
Palate: fresh, savory, elegant, structured, with a long, persistent finish.

Pairs beautifully with shellfish and crustacean appetizers, fish dishes, foie gras, and blue cheeses. Serve at 12-14°C.

Technical Sheet

• Producer: Abbazia San Giorgio

• Vintage: 2022

• Grape: 100% Zibibbo

• Appellation: IGT Terre di Sicilia

• Vineyard Area: 5 hectares

• Vine Age: 60 years

• Training System: Alberello pantesco

• Density: 2,500 vines/ha

• Yield: 30 q/ha

• Fermentation: spontaneous with native yeasts

• Aging: stainless steel and chestnut barrels, 6 months

• Sulfites: naturally present

• Alcohol: 12.5%

• Bottle size: 0.75 l

• Serving temperature: 12-14°C

• Contains sulfites

See all products of Abbazia San Giorgio

Abbazia San Giorgio: Natural Wines from Pantelleria

Winery History

Abbazia San Giorgio was founded in 2016 in Pantelleria by two friends, Battista Belvisi and Beppe Fontana, who wanted to create a wine that expressed the island’s identity. Their goal was to craft intense, distinctive wines in which the producer’s sensitivity acts as a spokesperson for the territory. The founders drew on traditional knowledge and experience from historical vineyards on the island.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vineyards cover 3.5 hectares in the Khamma district, one of the greenest areas on Pantelleria’s eastern side, with terraces overlooking the sea. Volcanic soils host mainly Zibibbo and Pignatello (Nivuro Nostrale), and to a lesser extent Carignano, Catarratto, and Nerello Mascalese. The traditional alberello pantesco training system, a UNESCO heritage, is used. No chemical products are applied; wild herbs are buried at the end of winter, promoting natural soil fertility.

Winemaking Approach

The natural philosophy continues in the cellar. Vinification relies solely on indigenous yeasts, without invasive interventions or additives, including sulfur dioxide. Every stage of production preserves authentic aromas and freshness, producing wines that evolve in the glass and convey the character of the territory even days after opening.

Wine Characteristics

Abbazia San Giorgio’s wines are fresh, sapid, and Mediterranean, a direct expression of the island and its unique pedoclimatic conditions. Each bottle captures the sun, sea breeze, and aromas of the Mediterranean, delivering an intense and authentic sensory experience. The winery embodies an artisanal approach, creating wines that interact with their environment naturally.