Bodega Pablo Fallabrino, Alcyone Tannat dessert wine

Bodega Pablo Fallabrino is a small, family-run winery located in Atlántida, Uruguay. The Fallabrino family has Italian winemaking roots dating back to the early 20th century, and Pablo carries forward that heritage with a focus on distinctive expressions of Tannat, Uruguay’s signature grape. While Tannat is usually known for being bold, structured, and tannic, Alcyone takes a very different path. It is a dessert wine that blends winemaking traditions - borrowing inspiration from Italian passito and fortified styles, while using modern techniques to create something singular. 

The name “Alcyone” comes from Greek mythology, referencing one of the Pleiades sisters and also a star in the Taurus constellation. This nod to mythology and astronomy reflects the wine’s luminous, ethereal character.

Alcyone Tannat begins with carefully harvested Tannat grapes. Instead of being vinified into a robust dry red, the grapes undergo a partial fermentation, leaving natural residual sugar. The wine is then infused with a proprietary blend of herbs and natural extracts, and fortified with brandy to stabilize and enrich it. This hybrid process yields a luscious, aromatic dessert wine that bridges the line between wine, vermouth and fine liqueur.

The result is an inky, velvety liquid with layers of complexity. Alcyone typically rests for a time in oak, further integrating flavours and softening edges.

Appearance: Deep garnet to near-black, with a rich viscosity that clings to the glass.

Aromas: Intense notes of cacao, espresso, dried figs, caramel, vanilla and exotic spices. Aromas reminiscent of Italian amaro or chocolate liqueur.

Palate: Silky, sweet, and mouth-coating. Flavours of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, dates, and orange peel dominate, balanced by gentle bitterness from the Tannat grape and herbal infusion.

Finish: Long, warming, and complex, leaving impressions of mocha and spice.

Temperature: Serve slightly chilled, around 12–14°C

Pairings: Alcyone shines with chocolate desserts, flourless cakes, or anything featuring caramel, nuts or coffee. It can also be paired with strong cheeses such as blue cheese. 

Alcyone Tannat is a conversation piece that blends tradition, innovation and indulgence.