Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Cusumano – Merlot Terre Siciliane IGT 2023
Sicily – Italy 🇮🇹

Overview
Cusumano is one of Sicily’s most progressive family-owned wineries, blending modern winemaking with the island’s ancient terroirs. This 100% Merlot comes from vineyards planted in the rolling hills of the Terre Siciliane IGT, showcasing how international varieties thrive under Sicily’s Mediterranean sun and volcanic-influenced soils.

Aromas & Flavors
Plum, blackberry, and red cherry dominate the nose, with soft accents of violets, Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, it’s juicy and fruit-driven, supported by hints of spice and earth that keep it grounded.

Mouthfeel
Smooth and medium-bodied, with round tannins and fresh acidity. A vibrant, approachable wine that finishes gently with a fruity, slightly savory edge.

Winemaking Notes
Vinified in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit purity, with short aging in neutral vessels. Cusumano’s style emphasizes clean, modern lines rather than heavy oak influence.

Food Pairing
Perfect with pasta alla norma, margherita pizza, grilled sausages, or aged caciocavallo cheese. Its balance of fruit and freshness makes it versatile for everyday Mediterranean dining.

Verdict
An easy-drinking, modern Sicilian Merlot that’s both accessible and expressive of place. Proof that international grapes can shine beautifully on the island, especially when crafted with balance and restraint. A la salute! — 2 months ago

Jay Eagan

9.3

The salute to the Rhône region is obvious - while the fruit is great (dark plum) the front of this wine is roasted meat. Also 8% Viognier is a great touch. If you can visit this winery in Santa Barbara! Ask for Andre - super cool guy. — 5 years ago

with Kristine

La Luna

9.0

Versatile- Spanish/Italian — 6 years ago

Scott@Mister A’s-San Diego

9.3

2019 vintage. Earthy spicefest up front with waves of ultimately balancing mid-palate fruit and crunchy, finishing tannins. Power-laden Merlot. Lower your sails and salute when it passes by. — 3 years ago

Sam Lee

8.9

…”When pairs with food, the taste and palate of the food brings out the tropical pineapple and juiciness out beautifully sharp yet delightfully, yet salute to the lime and citrus appellation 🍋🍊…”
🌞 — 5 years ago

Jay Eagan

9.3

Great start with strawberry and currant with a lengthy finish. Elegance of Oregon and at the winery they have pigs roaming so they salute the perfect pairing - pork and Pinot. Love Beaux Fréres. — 5 years ago

with Kristine

Kenneth Ventura

9.9

Nice complement of flavors. — 6 years ago

Arun Seetharam

9.2

A little for Father’s day celebration…salute. — 4 years ago

Alder Yarrow

Wine Blogger Vinography

9.1

What stories do ancient mountains and their caves tell? Stories of beginnings. It’s hard not to be inspired drinking one of the world’s most ancient grape varieties made in one of the places that winemaking began. And when made with such grace, so much the better. Blackberry and licorice, plum and a touch of dark earth, with lingering notes of candied fennel seeds in the finish. Gorgeous acidity and a finely textured skein of tannins. Armenia’s going through a hard time right now. I salute the resilience of her people. — 5 years ago

Stephen Redenbaugh

9.2

Medium gold in color... sporting its age. Beautiful depth of white fruit flavors—-apple, pear, ripe pineapple. Round, ripe, weighty. Long, smooth finish. I like Hirsch Pinots... I remain on their list for their Chardonnays. David, Jasmine...I raise my glass and salute you and your stewardship! — 6 years ago