Celebrate Halloween with a Sicilian Aperi-Dinner & Wine Pairing by Donnafugata
This Halloween, indulge in a uniquely Sicilian culinary experience with a hauntingly delicious Aperi-Dinner paired with the prestigious wines of Donnafugata, a world-renowned Sicilian winery known for its excellence and tradition. Every dish has been meticulously crafted and paired with wines that elevate the flavors of the Mediterranean ingredients, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the tastes of Sicily.
Polpo alla Griglia su Spirali di Carote e Gel all’Arancia
The evening begins with a dish that captures the essence of the sea: grilled octopus infused with bay leaf and thyme, served on a bed of carrot spirals, complemented by a refreshing lime cream and the zesty touch of orange gel.
The addition of cuttlefish obsidian and sea herbs offers a burst of marine flavors. To balance the octopus’ delicate, smoky profile, we’ve paired it with Prio 2022 Sicilia DOC Lucido. This crisp, floral white wine with citrusy undertones brings out the subtle herbal notes of the dish, while its minerality enhances the fresh, briny flavors of the octopus and sea herbs.
Polpette di Pesce al Sugo di Pomodoro
Our second course features tender fish balls in a rich tomato sauce, accompanied by shellfish, mollusks, raisins, pine nuts, and a fresh hint of mint.
The sweetness of the raisins and the richness of the tomato create a flavorful contrast that is further amplified by Passiperduti 2022 Sicilia DOC Grillo. This vibrant white wine with fruity aromas and a touch of spice harmonizes beautifully with the dish, accentuating the Mediterranean sweetness of the tomatoes and raisins while complementing the delicate freshness of the mint.
Ragusano in Carrozza
Next, we present Ragusano in Carrozza, a delightful caciocavallo Ragusano DOP cheese croquette served with a velvety pumpkin cream and finished with a liquorice glaze.
This dish’s complex layering of sweet pumpkin, sharp cheese, and bold liquorice notes is paired with Angheli 2020 Sicilia DOC Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon.
The wine’s full-bodied character, rich with dark fruits and a hint of spice, perfectly balances the creamy texture of the cheese and the sweetness of the pumpkin, while the liquorice glaze adds an intriguing depth that resonates with the wine’s robust finish.
Arancina nera di Seppia
For the final savory course, we serve an iconic Sicilian dish with a twist: Arancina nera di Seppia, a fried rice ball filled with flavorful cuttlefish ink. The richness of the seafood and the earthiness of the squid ink are elevated by Vigna di Gabri 2021 Sicilia DOC Ansonica, Viognier & Chardonnay.
This barrel-aged white offers a unique blend of floral and fruity aromas, with a subtle hint of oak that complements the deep, umami flavors of the cuttlefish ink.
Its acidity cuts through the richness of the arancina, providing a balanced and refined finish.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Event
Each of these carefully crafted pairings has been designed to highlight the harmony between the complex flavors of Sicilian cuisine and the elegance of Donnafugata wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply seeking an immersive Sicilian dining experience, this Halloween Aperi-Dinner promises to be an evening of culinary delight.
Reserve Your Spot for Our Sicilian Aperi-Dinner
Join us on October 31st for a spooky yet sophisticated Sicilian adventure. Two seating times are available at 18:00 and 20:30, so be sure to reserve your table and discover the magic of Sicilian flavors paired with exceptional wines. Celebrate Halloween like never before, with Donnafugata at your side.