Matthew's World of Wine and Drink Sardinia
Feb 22, 2021
Mark Middlebrook, an importer of unusual Italian wines at Portovino, shares his passion for Sardinia's viniculture. He discusses the rustic yet rich winemaking traditions on the island, highlighting unique varietals like Vermentino and Cannonau. Mark delves into the influence of Mediterranean and Catalan elements on these grapes, as well as the innovative techniques like aging under flor. Discover how Sardinia's cultural backdrop and its quest for fresher wines are shaping its growing international wine identity!
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Sardinia's Unique Wine Culture
- Sardinia is a rugged island with a unique, insular wine culture distinct from mainland Italy or Sicily.
- Wine regions are mainly coastal, with diverse grapes like Vermentino, Cannonau, and Monica thriving in different parts.
Vermentino’s Sardinian Character
- Vermentino is Sardinia's signature white grape, producing wines richer and more structured than those from Liguria or Tuscany.
- It is a versatile grape used in everything from everyday wines to serious age-worthy bottles.
Monica: Sardinia’s Lighter Red
- Monica is Sardinia's lighter and fresher red grape often overshadowed by Cannonau.
- It offers surprising tannic structure despite lighter color, making it great for lighter dishes or as an aperitivo wine.
