Wines Unspecified Tenuta Asinara - Herculis - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Cuvée Herculis 2019 from Tenuta Asinara is an intriguing red wine from Sardinia, Italy, crafted in a dry style. While the precise blend of grape varieties is not specified, Sardinian reds often feature local varietals such as Cannonau (Grenache) or Monica, known for producing wines with a harmonious balance of ripe fruit and Mediterranean herbs. The 2019 vintage in Sardinia was marked by warm temperatures and moderate rainfall, encouraging full ripeness and concentrating flavours, while careful vinification at the estate likely emphasises purity and freshness, resulting in a wine with vibrant fruit and supple tannins, supported by a gentle structure suited for both immediate enjoyment and mid-term cellaring.

Sardinia is a region renowned for its unique geographic and climatic influences. The island enjoys an abundance of sunshine, tempered by cooling maritime breezes from surrounding seas, which help maintain the acidity and aromatic vibrancy in the grapes. The soils are diverse, with granite, limestone, and clay contributing complexity and minerality to the wines. Sardinian viticulture is steeped in tradition, with a strong identity rooted in its native grape varieties and a winemaking heritage that reflects centuries of Phoenician, Roman, and Catalan influences. Wines from this region are often expressive, with both freshness and depth, speaking to the rugged beauty of their origin.

For food pairings, this Cuvée Herculis would harmonise beautifully with classic Sardinian fare such as roast suckling pig (porceddu), lamb with myrtle, or a robust tomato and pecorino-based pasta. Its vivid fruit profile, likely marked by notes of dark cherry, plum, and herbal undertones, would also complement grilled Mediterranean vegetables, hard cheeses like aged pecorino sardo, or even a richly flavoured seafood stew.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the wine slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Allowing the wine to breathe for at least 30 minutes before tasting will enhance its aromatic complexity and reveal the full range of its nuanced character.