Italy’s Night of Shooting Stars: Sip Malvasia on Salina
Every August 10, Italy looks up. La Notte di San Lorenzo—aka the Night of the Shooting Stars—is the country’s unofficial cosmic holiday: wish-making meets stargazing meets dolce vita. In Susannah’s words, “Remember you can make a wish on every star you see.” —Susannah (Avvinare)
While the sky puts on a show, your glass should, too. If you’re anywhere near the Aeolian Islands—and especially Salina—lean into the local classic: Malvasia delle Lipari. It’s a sweet, aromatic expression born on volcanic rock, tailor-made for warm nights, sea breezes, and that flicker of magic you only get when you’re scanning the Milky Way for streaks of light.
Style Snapshot: Malvasia delle Lipari
Region/Appellation: Aeolian Islands (with a strong foothold on Salina)
Grape Variety: Malvasia (local heritage variety)
Style: Typically sweet, aromatic, and medium-bodied; often made in a passito style (grapes dried for intensity). Think dessert-friendly or late-evening sipper, not sugar-bomb—balanced sweetness with enough lift to keep things fresh.
Best occasion: Stargazing nights, post-dinner conversations, and any moment when you’re feeling a little cosmic.
Best pairing direction: Lean either dessert or savory-salty—almond-based sweets, simple biscotti, or a salty cheese board all play nicely with sweetness.
Why Salina works for San Lorenzo
Susannah reminds us: “Salina is a magical place.” —Susannah (Avvinare) Between volcanic soils, crystalline water, and a sky that feels extra vast, the island practically begs for a blanket-and-bottle setup. It’s also steeped in film lore—Il Postino was shot here—and, as she notes, connected to the Taviani Brothers’ beautiful WWII-era film, The Night of the Shooting Stars. Culture, cinema, coastline, and constellations… you’re checking all the boxes.
If you’re sailing the Mediterranean, August 10 is the night to drop anchor early and let the show begin. According to Susannah’s experience, shooting stars don’t just make cameos—they can be plentiful when skies are clear. And pro tip: Italians say you might catch more on August 11, too. Double feature, anyone?
Context: What to expect from the glass
Malvasia in this corner of Italy has a long tradition and a vibe that lands right where many sweet wines hope to—pleasurable, perfumed, and easy to love in small, lingering sips. Volcanic soils often bring an underlying sense of energy, which helps the wine feel bright rather than heavy. This makes it perfect for warm summer nights when you want something that nods to dessert without putting you into a sugar coma.
Keep it slightly chilled, pour in small glasses, and let the rhythm of the evening set your pace: spot a streak, sip; whisper a wish, sip; debate whether that last one was a plane, sip. Simple ritual, maximum joy.
How to celebrate San Lorenzo like a local
- Find a dark vantage point: beaches, boat decks, hilltops—anywhere with minimal light pollution.
- Bring a chilled bottle and a light spread: almonds, biscotti, and a salty cheese or two. No overthinking.
- Invite good company: star-watching is better with shared wonder and a few laughs.
- Make the wishes: Italians don’t ration magic—go for as many as you catch.
Stargazing nights invite a certain humility. The cosmos is huge; our glasses are small. But the moment itself—friends, sea air, a generous pour—feels profoundly enough. If you’re already in Italy, congratulations. If you’re stateside, steal the spirit: grab a bottle of Malvasia delle Lipari, find your darkest corner, and let the night do its thing.
As Susannah writes, “Tonight, August 10, is officially known in Italy as la Notte di San Lorenzo.” —Susannah (Avvinare) Whether you’re on Salina or scrolling star maps from your backyard, there’s a lovely connection between the sky and what we choose to toast.
Closing takeaway: The best wine for San Lorenzo is one that matches the mood—sweet, island-born, and a little bit luminous. Keep it easy, keep it joyful, and make the wish.
Source: https://avvinare.com/2025/08/10/la-notte-di-san-lorenzo-night-of-the-shooting-stars-2/
