Wines Cannonau di Sardegna Giovanni Montisci - Barrosu Riserva - 2012

The 2012 Giovanni Montisci Cuvée Barrosu Riserva hails from the prestigious Cannonau di Sardegna appellation in Sardinia, Italy. While varietal compositions may sometimes vary, Cannonau di Sardegna wines are almost always centred around the Cannonau grape, the local iteration of Grenache, often resulting in robust and expressive reds. The 2012 vintage has garnered a reputation for balanced ripeness and structure across much of Sardinia, which would likely offer elegant tannins and a saturated fruit core. Giovanni Montisci is renowned for small-batch, artisanal winemaking—expect minimally interventionist methods, with manual harvesting, native yeast fermentation, and patient aging, likely in old oak barrels, to preserve both the grape’s character and the terroir's unique imprint.

Sardinia’s viticultural identity is as ancient as it is distinctive. The island’s Mediterranean climate is defined by hot, sun-filled days and cooling maritime breezes, providing optimal conditions for full ripening while retaining a refreshing lift in the wines. The soils vary but are often sandy, granitic and well-draining, bringing a certain minerality and vibrant energy to the region's reds. Historically, Cannonau holds mythical status within Sardinian wine culture, reputedly contributing to the island’s tradition of longevity, and the wines speak of both resilience and refinement.

For food pairings, such a generous wine is ideally matched with richly flavoured dishes. Traditional Sardinian fare such as roasted lamb with herbs, wild boar stew, or porchetta makes for an exquisite match, as do mature Pecorino Sardo cheeses or hearty pasta dishes with tomato, wild fennel and sausage. The wine’s depth can also beautifully complement Mediterranean grills, mushroom risotto, or slow-cooked game.

To appreciate the full spectrum of aromas and structure, serve this Cannonau di Sardegna at a temperature between 16-18°C, ideally decanted for an hour prior to tasting. This will help release its intricate bouquet of red fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and subtle earthy undertones.