LaStella interprets the Okanagan through an Italian lens. In the wrong hands, it could feel contrived. But LaStella never loses its sense of place thanks to the thoughtful winegrowing of Severine Pinte. Fortissimo is a different take on the Super Tuscan, with a 6-percent splash of Sangiovese adding savoury complexity to this Merlot-dominant blend. Pour it next to the Modest Wines Sangiovese for an interesting comparison.
Tasting Note
From the exceptional 2020 vintage, this iteration is a blend of 63% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Sangiovese from the Black Sage Bench and Osoyoos. There's a beautiful combination of expressive fruit, led by dark cherry, alongside savoury notes of tobacco, sandalwood, and desert sage. Like you'd expect from a Super Tuscan, this is firmly structured, with the potential to develop gracefully in bottle over the next 5-7 years. If you don't have the patience, and we don't blame you, pair with a hearty protein and decant for 1-2 hours.
Food Pairing
Roasted leg of lamb with rosemary