Vigne Surrau, Cannonau Di Sardegna Sincaru, 2021
Vigne Surrau, Cannonau Di Sardegna Sincaru, 2021
- Red Still
- 75CL
- 14%
- Cannonau
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The vineyards of Vigne Surrau, with a south-east exposure, enjoy the Mediterranean climate in well ventilated hilly areas. The wind, typical of Gallura, helps obtain healthy grapes and thanks to the proximity of the sea, brings sapidity, particularly appreciated feature in their wines.
The 2021 vintage benefits from Sardinia’s climate, ideal for producing rich, flavourful wines. Here you will find a more structured and complex expression of Cannonau (Grenache), with a focus on elegance and depth, that will pair excellently with hearty dishes such as roasted lamb, beef stews, grilled game, and aged cheeses. It also complements dishes with robust flavours, including those featuring earthy mushrooms, truffles, or rich tomato-based sauces.
Currently showing primary fruit with well-integrated tannins, the 2021 will continue developing over the next 3-5 years as the oak fully marries with the fruit. The granite-derived minerality will become more prominent as primary fruit mellows, whilst secondary characters of leather and dried herbs emerge. Peak drinking will likely occur between 2027-2030, after which the wine will gradually soften but maintain its distinctive saline character. The Mediterranean climate and granite soils typically produce wines with good longevity, though this isn't a wine for extended cellaring beyond 2031.
Tasting Notes
AppearanceDeep ruby with purple highlights, showing good concentration and youthful vibrancy.
NoseIntense blackberry and cherry fruit mingles with wild Mediterranean herbs, particularly rosemary and thyme. Granite-derived minerality provides a distinctive backdrop, whilst subtle spice from oak integration adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
PalateFull-bodied with firm but ripe tannins that grip without harshness. Dark fruit flavours are supported by saline minerality that reflects the coastal influence. The mid-palate shows good concentration with balanced acidity driving the wine towards a satisfying finish.
FinishLong and mineral-driven with lingering dark fruit and a distinctive saline edge that marks fine Sardinian reds.
Overall impressionA structured expression of Cannonau that successfully captures Gallura's unique granite terroir and Mediterranean character.
Food Pairings
In Sardinia, robust reds like this Cannonau traditionally accompany roasted lamb seasoned with wild myrtle and rosemary, often cooked in traditional stone ovens. Locals pair it with cinghiale (wild boar) stewed with juniper berries and aromatic herbs gathered from the macchia mediterranea. The wine's mineral structure complements pecorino sardo cheese, aged in mountain caves, whilst its fruit intensity matches perfectly with malloreddus pasta dressed with wild mushroom and sausage ragù. During autumn, it accompanies game birds like partridge, often prepared with bitter herbs and served alongside roasted chestnuts.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve at 16-18°C to allow the fruit and mineral complexity to express fully. Decant for 30 minutes to soften the tannins and integrate the oak, though this isn't essential given the wine's accessible style. Use medium-sized Burgundy glasses to concentrate the aromatic intensity whilst providing adequate surface area for the wine to breathe. The wine benefits from slight aeration but doesn't require extended decanting.
The vineyards sit on granite-based soils in the hilly areas of Gallura, with south-east exposure maximising sun capture whilst benefiting from cooling sea breezes. The proximity to the Mediterranean brings saline minerality that marks all wines from this zone. Persistent winds, characteristic of northern Sardinia, ensure healthy grapes by reducing humidity and disease pressure whilst concentrating flavours through natural dehydration.
Cannonau di Sardegna DOC encompasses the entire island but achieves particular distinction in Gallura's granite hills. The denomination requires minimum 85% Cannonau (the local name for Grenache) and allows traditional varieties like Monica and Pascale di Cagliari for blending. Unlike mainland Italian appellations, this DOC celebrates Sardinia's isolation, producing wines with distinctive mineral signatures and aromatic intensity rarely found elsewhere. The regulations permit various styles from fresh young wines to structured reserves.
The 2021 growing season in Sardinia proved challenging yet ultimately rewarding for producers across the island. Spring brought cooler than usual temperatures that delayed budbreak, followed by a particularly dry summer with limited rainfall through July and August. The island's diverse microclimates meant that coastal vineyards benefited from maritime influence whilst inland sites experienced more extreme heat stress. August brought some welcome relief with cooler nights, allowing grapes to retain crucial acidity levels. Harvest began earlier than average in many areas, with producers working quickly to capture optimal ripeness before the intense Mediterranean sun could compromise freshness.
The vintage delivered wines of concentrated character with excellent structure, though yields were notably reduced due to the dry conditions. Vermentino performed particularly well in coastal areas, producing wines with bright minerality and citrus precision. The red varieties showed impressive concentration, with Cannonau developing deep colour and robust tannins whilst maintaining good balance. Monica and Carignano also excelled where yields were controlled. Most 2021 Sardinian whites are drinking beautifully now and will continue to develop over the next 2-3 years, whilst the reds show excellent ageing potential and will reward cellaring for 5-8 years or more.
FAQs
What makes Sardinian Cannonau different from other Grenache wines?
Sardinia's isolation has preserved unique Cannonau clones, whilst granite soils and Mediterranean winds create distinctive mineral signatures rarely found in mainland Grenache. The saline influence from surrounding seas adds complexity that marks the best Sardinian examples.
How should I store this wine?
Store horizontally in a cool, dark place at 12-15°C with consistent temperature. The wine will develop well over 3-5 years but doesn't require extensive cellaring. Avoid temperature fluctuations which can damage the wine's structure.
Is this wine ready to drink now?
Yes, the 2021 is approachable now with soft tannins and integrated fruit, though it will reward short-term cellaring. Decanting for 30 minutes will enhance immediate enjoyment by allowing the wine to open fully.
What food pairings work best?
Rich, flavourful dishes complement the wine's structure and intensity. Think roasted lamb, beef stews, game meats, and aged cheeses. The mineral character also pairs excellently with mushroom-based dishes and robust Mediterranean preparations.
How does the 2021 vintage compare to others?
2021 was a successful vintage in Sardinia, producing wines with good concentration and balanced acidity. The growing season provided ideal conditions for Cannonau, resulting in wines with both power and elegance.
What is the significance of the Gallura terroir?
Gallura's granite soils and coastal winds create unique growing conditions that produce wines with distinctive mineral signatures. The combination of Mediterranean climate, granite-derived acidity, and sea breezes results in Cannonau with exceptional aromatic intensity and mineral complexity.
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