The wines of Sardinia are perhaps some of the most undervalued wines in Italy. Made from many of the world’s most popular grape varieties, the wines are often overlooked because the dialectic names of these grapes are unrecognizable. Combine that fact with the already confusing traditional Italian wine label, and consumers will happily walk right on by, looking for other islands of comfort and safety in their local wine shop. Of course, this assumes that the local wine shop is daring enough to carry Sardinian wines in the first place. A rare occurrence indeed.

Sella & Mosca has been a favorite of mine for decades and their Cannonau (Grenache – see what I mean?) is simply delightful. From their website, “Sella & Mosca’s 1,600-acre estate, I Piani, constitutes the second largest contiguous vineyard in Italy, covering more than 1,200 acres of vines. It is one of the largest wine estates in Europe. The climate is hot and dry. Inland vineyards cover mountainous terrain of granite, schist, sandstone and limestone soil. The estate is surrounded by landscaped gardens and a profusion of flowering oleanders, maritime pines, palm trees and eucalyptus. The winery features multiple tasting rooms, an expertly designed enoteca and a fascinating exhibit showcasing replicas of archaeological finds unearthed during the building of the estate. The average age of the vines for this wine is 18 years.”

The wine itself is a high-value, easy-drinking red that has elegance and poise, as result of judicial oak aging.

My tasting note:

Bright, fruity nose with bing cherry, menthol and truffle hints. Medium-bodied with moderate acidity and supple tannins. Well-balanced with a soft, plush palate. Red currant, strawberry, and violet hints. Long finish with earthy, and licorice on the aftertaste. Drinking well now and should hold for 3-5 years (that said, we still have the 2005 vintage and the wine is drinking beautifully).

If you are looking for a versatile, high-value red for the Summer, the Sella & Mosca Cannonau it it!

Cheers!