A long story - of love and passion, of knowledge and respect for places - which has lasted for over a century and a half , since Francesco Tornatore's great-grandfather began farming back in 1865. The Tornatore family has continued, from generation to generation, in the path traced then, developing agricultural activity without ever neglecting the attachment and respect towards the traditions and the territory in which they have their roots.
Located on the fertile northern slopes of Etna, the Tornatore company boasts 100 hectares of lush land, with the largest extension of vineyards in the Etna Doc area , olive groves and hazelnut groves. Representing Sicilian excellence and tradition, our company grows native varieties in historic districts, combining traditional methods and modern technologies to produce superior quality wines. Our passion for wine is reflected in every bottle, celebrating the uniqueness of the Etna area.
Founded in 1865 by Francesco Tornatore's great-grandfather , the company has been carrying on a winemaking tradition that has its roots in the fertile lands of Etna for over 150 years . In 1910, grandfather Giuseppe consolidated the family business by building a millstone in the Piano Fiera district, marking the beginning of an expansion that would encompass other precious lands on the northern side of Etna. Our profound knowledge of the territory , enriched by decades of experience and passed down from generation to generation , allows us today to look to the future with the certainty of those who have always known how to respect the land and its traditions, continuing our commitment to excellence and innovation in the world of wine.
Making wine under the volcano is not easy, yet, for those who succeed, it is the most rewarding thing there is. The Tornatore company is located on the fertile northern side of Etna, whose lands, caressed by significant temperature variations due to the proximity of the Nebrodi Mountains, are home to vines that sink into an unrepeatable terroir , shaped by the activity of the highest volcano in Europe. The magical combination of terroir, climate and production knowledge makes the northern side of Etna an ideal territory for the production of unique wines of exceptional complexity and sensorial richness.
Ruby red with soft purplish reflections. Rich and complex on the nose, very reminiscent of small fruits of brambles, black cherry and a very delicate hint of softwood. On the palate it is decisive, complex and extraordinarily persistent.
Review:
Complex aromas of ripe fruit, toffee, cedar and smoke. Medium body, round and creamy tannins and a fresh, juicy finish.
-James Suckling 94 Points
Realm Cellars Bard Red Blend is made from a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, 1% Petite Sirah.
The 2021 is the largest and most complex blend we've ever made with dozens of components from vineyards across the realm of Napa Valley. This vintage includes new vineyard sources from Calistoga, Rutherford and Oak Knoll AVA, allowing us to broaden our painter’s palette. The Bard is generally more approachable in its youth than some of our single vineyard bottlings, but we expect it to age for many years to come. This is our first time using a technical cork for this wine, which should guarantee consistency and improve longevity.
Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, 1% Petite Sirah.
Review:
Lastly, the 2021 The Bard checks in as 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah. This beauty has a killer bouquet of cassis, spring flowers, graphite, chalky minerality, and violets. This carries to a full-bodied, seamless, silky, flawlessly balanced effort revealing fine tannins, a good sense of freshness, and a thrilling finish.
-Jeb Dunnuck 98 Points
Inglenook Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc.
Stunningly deep ruby in color, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with heady aromas of brambly black cherry, vanilla, warm brioche, and crème de cassis. As the wine warms on the palate, notes of red cherry, graphite and fennel emerge, as very polished, refined tannins carry the wine into a long, fragrant finish. Layered flavors, good tension, and a perfect integration of wine and oak interact to create this classic expression of Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon.
Review:
This shows notes of ripe blackberries and blackcurrants with hints of licorice, cloves, walnuts and chocolate. It has full body and a velvety tannin structure. Juicy and vibrant fruit on the palate with a touch of earthiness. Smooth and delicious. Long, fruity finish. Very pure fruit. Try after 2024.
-James Suckling 95 points