News

Sardinia: grape varieties and wines that tell an ancient story

22 February 2024

3 minutes

In addition to its natural beauty and traditions, Sardinia is also a land of great wines, which tell its thousand-year history. With its hills, broad plains and sea-washed coastline, this region offers an extraordinary terroir that has fostered the cultivation of a wide range of native grape varieties, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and character.

A journey to discover Sardinian wines is an opportunity to learn more about the roots of this land and to reconnect with one’s ancestors and culture.

 

The richness of native grape varieties

  • Cannonau: undisputed ruler of Sardinian reds, Cannonau is a black grape variety that has deep roots in the lands of Nuoro, Oliena (where it is named Nepente), Mamoiada, Jerzu and Capo Ferrato. With enveloping aromas and nuances of red fruits, Cannonau embodies the passion and strength of this land.
  • Vermentino: Sardinia’s elegant white wine, Vermentino, with its floral and fruity notes, finds its greatest expression in the Vermentino di Sardegna and Vermentino di Gallura DOCG areas. An ideal companion for seafood dishes and summer evenings.
  • Malvasia: refined and distinguished, Malvasia wine is a true oenological gem. The Malvasia grape variety, grown in the picturesque area of Bosa, yields dessert wines of extraordinary elegance.
  • Carignano: concentrated in the Sulcis region, Carignano is a red wine with character. This grape variety expresses its strength and robustness in the wines that characterize the area.
  • Bovale: Bovale family, composed of Bovale Sardo and Bovale di Spagna, gives red wines with garnet hues. Perfect with seasoned dishes and roasted meats, it is a tribute to Sardinia’s winemaking roots.
  • Monica: Among Sardinia’s oldest grape varieties, Monica, grown on limestone soils, offers wines with a delicate taste. Notes of blackberry, cherry and almond undertones make this wine an icon of tradition and refinement.
  • Cagnulari: grown in the northwest of the province of Sassari, Cagnulari is distinguished by its balsamic notes and scents of berries. Perfect with traditional local dishes, it is a wine treasure to be discovered.
  • Nuragus: white grape variety, Nuragus, grown mainly in the provinces of Cagliari and Oristano, produces fresh wines with notes of green apple and citrus. Versatile, it goes well with fresh cheeses, appetizers and soups.
  • Muscat: widespread in areas exposed to sun and sea winds, Muscat gives aromatic wines with notes of candied fruit and caramelized almonds. Ideal with traditional desserts and candied citrus fruits.

 

Ancient history told in every sip

The history of viticulture in Sardinia is a fascinating narrative that spans millennia. From the first traces of vines dating back to the Phoenicians to the present day, the passion for wine has withstood invasions and cultural changes. The variety of native grape varieties and attention to tradition have helped Sardinian wines shine on the international stage.

Every sip of a Sardinian wine is a journey through time, a connection to the deep roots of this land. Whether it’s the enveloping warmth of a Cannonau, the freshness of a Vermentino or the harmony of a Carignano, the wines of Sardinia are an invitation to discover the hidden treasures of an island rich in history and winemaking passion.




Other news

  • Roots Workshops

    Italea Sardinia: Roots Workshops to Rediscover Sardinian Culture and Traditions Italea Sardegna invites you to participate in the Roots Workshops, a unique opportunity to explore the history, crafts, genealogy and flavors of Sardinia. Each event offers an immersion in local traditions through experiential and historical workshops, accompanied by experts in the field. Participation is free, […]

    READ MORE
  • Practical guide to first genealogical research: on the trail of your ancestors

    For many Italians abroad, the connection to the homeland is a fundamental thread in their identity. The desire to rediscover one’s Sardinian roots, to learn about the history and traditions of the places where one’s ancestors came from, is a sentiment shared by several generations.   Why is it good to rediscover the origins of […]

    READ MORE
  • Travel tips: discovering Sardinia

    For many Italians scattered around the world, Sardinia represents a place of magnetic appeal, an ancestral call rooted in family history and tales passed down from generation to generation. An island capable of bewitching with its scenic beauty and millenary culture, Sardinia represents for many a dream come true, a unique opportunity to reconnect with […]

    READ MORE
  • Longevity in Sardinia: discover the secrets of the Blue Zone

    Among the pristine mountains of Barbagia and the authentic villages of Ogliastra, Sardinia, lies a priceless treasure: the Sardinian Blue Zone. It is one of the five areas on the planet with the highest concentration of centenarians, where the average life span far exceeds the global average. What makes this place so special? What are […]

    READ MORE