Wines Unspecified Santadi - Barrua - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Cuvée Barrua 2020 from Santadi is a refined red wine hailing from the enchanting island of Sardinia. Crafted predominantly from Carignano (Carignan), often blended with smaller proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this cuvée is a testament to Sardinia’s vinicultural potential. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm Mediterranean climate that allowed grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness, resulting in a full-bodied wine with concentrated fruit. The terroir around Santadi is defined by sandy and clay-limestone soils, which impart a distinctive mineral freshness and structured tannins to the wine. Ageing in French oak barrels further elevates its complexity, lending elegant notes of spice, tobacco, and subtle vanilla to the ripe dark cherry and blackberry fruit profile.

Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, enjoys a unique position in the Mediterranean, with abundant sunshine, cooling sea breezes, and ancient vineyard sites. The viticultural landscape is shaped by varied soils and undulating hills, perfect for growing robust red varieties like Carignano. The island’s vinous history is deeply rooted, with traditions dating back millennia, influenced both by the native Nuragic people and later settlers. Unlike other Italian regions, Sardinian wines retain a character all their own, marked by freshness, salinity, and a wild herbal edge.

Cuvée Barrua’s rich, generous style makes it an ideal companion for hearty, flavourful dishes. It pairs beautifully with Sardinian specialities such as roasted suckling pig (porceddu), lamb stew with myrtle, or pane carasau with cured meats. More generally, this wine complements well-aged cheeses, grilled red meats, or game, enhancing dishes that echo its depth and savoury complexity.

For the best tasting experience, decant the wine at least an hour before serving to allow it to fully unfold. Serve at around 16-18°C to highlight its aromatic intensity and integrated tannins. This wine will continue to develop in the bottle, but it already offers immediate pleasure for those seeking an authentic taste of Sardinia.