The IGT region of “Isola dei Nuraghi” on the island of Sardinia is home to some truly wonderful wines. The region itself is the broadest of all Sardinian IGT regions, encompassing the entire island. The name “Isola dei Nuraghi” refers to over 7,000 conical stone towers that dot the landscape, which were constructed between 2,000 and 700 B.C. as defensive “forts.” The Nuraghi are an important symbol of Sardinian culture, so much so that the period of their construction is known as the Nuragic Age.

Most of the wine produced in this broad region is red and primarily from French varietals, especially Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Agricola Punica Barrua is composed of Carignan (85%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Merlot (5%) grown in the Barrua vineyard within the Sulcis Iglesente region within southwest Sardinia. The wine is considered a “Super Sardinian” wine, connoting a wine of great quality and distinction. Soil in the region is sandy with a mix of limestone and clay, which allows the Carignan to thrive. Production yields are low, and the winery employs hand harvesting, as well as temperature-controlled fermentation to promote quality. Each varietal in the blend is fermented individually, then blended and aged in French oak barriques, approximately 40% new / 60% second use with medium toast. The wine ages and settles for 18 months in barrel, is transferred to concrete vats for about a month and then bottle aged for another 6 months prior to release.

The resulting wine is charming and elegant, with seductive drinkability.

My tasting note:

Black cherry with briar, menthol and lilac hints. Well-balanced with moderate acidity and supple tannins. Plum, cherry and red currant notes. Pretty. Long finish with anise and rosemary on the aftertaste. Lovely!

Cheers!