Fortino Winery is nestled in a valley laden with ancient oaks, redwoods, and mustard seed plants. Surrounding the winery are 70-year-old dry-farmed grapevines nurtured by hot sunshine as well as a cool Mediterranean climate. Reminiscent of his native Cosenza, Italy, fourth-generation Winemaster Ernest Fortino fell in love with the Hecker Pass region and settled here over 35 years ago. The fifth generation is now working in the vines, carrying on the tradition of handmade winemaking in the Italian style.

There are three vineyards that produce an assortment of grapes for Fortino’s wines. They pride themselves on making drinkable red wines, as well as a handful of white and dessert wines. Their Burgundy Reserve is a special blend that has been handed down through generations and is made from Cabernet, Carignane, and Grenache. They also produce Sangiovese, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, White Zinfandel, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah, Charbono, Cabernet Sauvignon, two Champagnes and an apricot wine.

The facility consists of a group of beige stucco buildings with a large tasting room and an outdoor event center. The wine bar is some 35 feet long and made from pecky cypress wood. There is a full gift shop with picnic baskets, painted glassware and wine accessories. For a special treat grab some friends and make an appointment for Fortino’s VIP Barrel Bottling Party, where you bottle and label your own wine. (A barrel fills about 22 cases of wine!)