Perched on the westernmost tip of Sicily, Marsala speaks of tradition, and no producer more so than the pioneering Cantine Florio. Founded in 1833, the winery was the first in the region dedicated to the production of high-quality Marsala wines, with control of every element from the vine to the bottle.
Celebrating excellence
In 2022, the team at Cantine Florio developed a new range of wines marrying the utmost respect for the past with a strong dedication to innovation. Customer engagement is at the heart of project, named ‘New Geography’, whose wines showcase both the estate’s heritage and its quality.
The design of this new range reflects the detailed work that goes into every bottle. Recognising the uniqueness of Marsala wines, the labels offer information about the date of fortification, oak ageing and even the location of the barrels within the cellar. The profile of the wine is greatly influenced by the distance from the sea, as well as the ‘angel’s share’ – the amount of wine lost through evaporation – which is also noted on the label.
International recognition
One of these outstanding ‘New Geography’ wines, the 1998 Vergine Riserva, received 97 points and the rare status of Platinum at the 2024 Decanter World Wine Awards. The wine was aged in the Florio cellars, 147m from the sea, where it lost 41% of its volume (its angel’s share). Incredibly complex and nutty on the palate – think almonds and walnuts – with notes of dried figs and prunes. The acidity keeps the wine fresh and vibrant, pointing to even further development to come.
The 2001 Superiore Riserva Semisecco ‘Sr0301’ was also highly rated at DWWA 2024, receiving 92 points. With 85g of residual sugar, this is a lightly sweet Marsala wine that offers roasted almond and hazelnut aromas coupled with enticing notes of curry powder and roasted pumpkin. Very versatile, it offers myriad possibilities to match with both savoury and sweet dishes.
Sharing the passion
For those who would like to explore the wonderful complexity of these Marsala wines, Cantine Florio offers many options. The winery already welcomes 50,000 visitors a year to enjoy wine tastings, with journeys into the winery’s cellars and pairings with local culinary delights. With the estate producing better wines than ever, now is the time to plan a visit and unlock the secrets of this historic corner of Sicily.
Food pairing
Marsala’s versatility and adaptability may surprise you! Why not try a dry Marsala as an aperitif with fresh oysters, or pair an aged Semisecco with tuna steak or blue cheese. And while a sweet Marsala wine will match perfectly with chocolate or creamy desserts, remember it can be savoured all on its own – the perfect end to any meal!
Discover more about Cantine Florio
Connect onFacebook | Instagram
-
Andrew Jefford: France's wine appellations need reformOur award-winning columnist argues for bold changes to make France's wine appellations fit for purpose as winemakers face multiple crises.
-
Selvanella: A Chianti Classico pioneerIn 1969, when Chianti Classico was still dominated by blends and bulk production, one estate put the name of its vineyard on the label. It was an act of conviction that still defines it today.
-
Selvanella: A Chianti Classico pioneer
In 1969, when Chianti Classico was still dominated by blends and bulk production, one estate put the name of its vineyard on the label. It was an act of conviction that still defines it today.
-
Gavi: Piedmont’s hidden gemSponsored Content Set between the Apennines and the Ligurian coast, Gavi combines medieval charm, distinctive gastronomy and one of Italy’s finest wines.
-
Cuatro Rayas: Past-proofing the futureResponsible for the largest area under vine in Rueda, this forward-thinking wine cooperative has embraced its role as the custodian of an invaluable natural and cultural heritage.
-
Cantina Tollo: Business not as usualSponsored Content In the heart of Abruzzo, Cantina Tollo is proving that cooperatives are becoming a key source of quality wine. The benchmark producer shows how a long-term vision can balance tradition and innovation to create a truly sustainable business – and some very serious wines.
-
Two different faces of Tuscany: Castello di Radda and Cantina Fabio MottaSponsored Content For 50 years the Agricole Gussalli Beretta group has been dedicated to producing wines of the highest quality in Italy’s most prestigious wine-growing regions.
-
Tenuta Il Finale – Shining a spotlight on Piedmont’s land and grapesSponsored Content A friendship forged through the world of business led three wine lovers to the steep hills of Piedmont, where they are championing the region’s local varieties.
-
Bordeaux whites and crémants: Energy, freshness and renewalSponsored Content A deep dive into the new-wave dry white and sparkling wines from a region undergoing a vibrant renaissance creating crisp, lively expressions that blend Atlantic freshness, historical roots, and modern innovation for everyday enjoyment.
-
Explore Spain with Pata NegraSponsored Content Celebrate the exciting diversity of the Spanish wine scene with the pioneering umbrella brand that brings together a selection of top denominations under just one label. The Pata Negra range allows you to explore regions from Rioja to Rueda – and beyond.
