CULLMAN, Ala. – Brian and Jacob Fortenberry of Fortenberry Farms in Cullman, Alabama, earned top honors at Taste of Northeast Alabama on Tuesday, Sept. 16, winning the Best Appetizer Award for their smoked bologna chunks seasoned with their special Butt Rub blend and tossed in their signature Peach Sweet Heat barbecue sauce. The event was held at The Venue at Coosa Landing in Gadsden and benefited Altrusa of Gadsden, a service organization dedicated to supporting local nonprofits.
The Fortenberrys are no strangers to festivals and markets — regularly showcasing their flavors at St. Bernard Prep School’s Bloomin’ Festival and Bernard Blues and BBQ in Cullman. Their winning appetizer drew praise from the evening’s judges, which included Eli Gold, legendary American sportscaster; Greg Seitz, vice president for athletics at Jacksonville State University; and Ken Bodiford, director of music at Jacksonville State.
The annual tasting event is a highlight on the Neely Henry Lake region’s calendar, drawing more than 40 restaurants, caterers and food vendors, along with 400 guests from across northeast Alabama.
Alongside Fortenberry Farms’ win, Classic Creations Catering in conjunction with Main Street Italian Bistro in Springville, Alabama, took home awards for both the Entrée category and the People’s Choice Award. The Best Dessert Award went to The Candy Factory Bakery of Gadsden.
Supporters strolled from booth to booth, sampling the best flavors the region has to offer — all while helping raise funds for area nonprofits.
For more information about Fortenberry Farms and their award-winning products, visit www.thefortenberryfarms.com.
