Wines Unspecified Contini - I Giganti Rosso Nieddera - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Contini's 2019 I Giganti Rosso Nieddera is an intriguing red wine from the beautiful Italian island of Sardinia. Produced by the historic Cantina Contini, this wine is crafted primarily from the rare indigenous Nieddera grape, a variety that is almost unique to this region and which is prized for its deep colour, aromatic complexity, and lively character. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a balanced growing season, with warm Mediterranean sunshine tempered by cooling sea breezes. Winemaking here typically involves careful temperature-controlled fermentation to preserve the aromatic freshness and fruit purity of the Nieddera variety, followed by maturation in stainless steel or neutral vessels to emphasise its vibrant style rather than overt oak influence.

Sardinia is a fascinating wine region, distinct from mainland Italy, with a rich tapestry of history shaped by a succession of cultural influences. The climate is quintessentially Mediterranean, offering hot, dry summers and mild winters, while the soils are a mix of limestone, clay, and sand, often derived from ancient marine deposits. These conditions are ideal for growing characterful grapes with pronounced minerality and freshness. Sardinia’s relative isolation has helped conserve ancient grape varieties like Nieddera, resulting in wines with a unique regional personality and sense of place.

The bold yet agile profile of the I Giganti Rosso Nieddera pairs especially well with traditional Sardinian fare. Its ripe red and black fruit notes, gentle spiciness, and refreshing acidity make it an excellent companion for roasted suckling pig (porceddu), game dishes, or local pecorino cheese. It fits equally well alongside grilled lamb, tomato-based pasta, or hearty mushroom risottos, with the wine's purity of fruit and savoury undertones balancing rich and robust flavours.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly cool, at around 16-18°C. Decanting for half an hour before serving can also help reveal its aromatic detail and smooth out the youthful tannins, offering a true taste of Sardinia in your glass.