Fortazzo Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Sicily is Italy’s hottest (in every sense!) region – and thanks to the small, but high-quality, 2019 vintage, winemakers everywhere enjoyed a fruitful harvest. And no one was more pleased than the talented Simone Cortese, young star at Barone Montalto, an estate that scooped a 2015 Vinitaly Gran Menzione.

After harvest, Simone brought his prized Cabernet Sauvignon grapes back to the cellar and got to work. Fortazzo – Italian slang for impressive strength – is a bold-fruited red, with intense, black-fruit flavors (think sun-ripened blackberry, plum, and black currant), along with hints of inviting black pepper. Three months in new American oak barrels has woven layers of vanilla pod and mocha into the mid-palate through to the finish.

This dark and full-bodied Cabernet is a smooth and tasty partner for all manner of beef. Simone recommends grilled flat iron steaks, but anything from burgers to ribs will also work well.

Made in small batches (and all the better for it!), Fortazzo is a delicious demonstration of the “strengths” of Sicilian wines – a serious punch of flavor and terrific value-for-money. Order your share today.