Viniou Reviews
Santadi’s Terre Brune 2019 is a flagship Carignano del Sulcis DOC from Sardinia, showcasing the power and elegance of the Carignano grape (known as Carignan elsewhere). This wine is crafted predominantly from old bush-vine Carignano, complemented by a touch of local Bovaleddu, yielding an intense ruby-red hue. The 2019 vintage benefits from a consistent growing season, offering ripe tannins and aromatic complexity. Fermentation traditionally takes place in stainless steel, with extended maceration to coax out depth, and the wine matures for over a year in French oak barriques, followed by bottle ageing, resulting in a harmonious integration of structure and finesse. On the nose, expect blackberries, dark cherries, spices, tobacco, and cocoa notes, while the palate reveals rich fruit concentration, silky tannins, and a lingering mineral finish.
The Carignano del Sulcis appellation lies in the remote southwestern corner of Sardinia, an area celebrated for its sun-drenched landscapes and proximity to the sea. This region bears sandy, well-drained soils interspersed with limestone and clay, ideal for old Carignano vines that resist local winds and salt-laden breezes. The Mediterranean climate, marked by mild winters and hot, dry summers, fosters grapes with notable ripeness and deep concentration. Sardinia’s winemaking history winds back millennia, with Carignano having taken root thanks to Spanish influence in the Middle Ages, culminating today in unique, terroir-driven expressions like Terre Brune.
A wine of this calibre finds its best partners in hearty, flavourful dishes. It pairs beautifully with spit-roasted suckling pig (porceddu), Sardinian lamb stew, mature pecorino cheese, or even Mediterranean-inspired braised beef. Rich ragù, roasted game, and grilled aubergines also complement its depth and savoury notes; for an authentic approach, sample with malloreddus (local pasta) in a spicy sausage sauce.
For optimal enjoyment, decant Terre Brune an hour before serving to unveil its aromatic layers and soften the tannins. The ideal serving temperature lies between 16 and 18°C, enhancing both freshness and complexity. This wine promises great pleasure now but will reward several more years in the cellar, gaining tertiary aromas and further integration.
