Expert’s choice: Sardinian red wines

As in so many of Italy’s regions, wine is an integral part of Sardinia’s history and economy and, not least, its varied gastronomy. Archaeological discoveries bear witness to a winemaking heritage dating back to Roman times and most likely the earlier preRoman Phoenician era.

Sardinia was blanketed by a sea of vines with nearly 80,000ha of vineyards in the 19th century, however today’s vineyard area covers just 27,000ha – a reflection of a growth in quality wines from specific geographical areas at the expense of ‘rotgut rosso’.

Sardinia is Italy’s Cannonau stronghold, and it is – along with its counterpart white variety Vermentino – the grape for which Sardinia is best known in Italy and overseas. Of the 41 grape varieties planted in Sardinia, the Cannonau di Sardegna DOC represents the largest vineyard area, at a little more than a quarter of all plantings.

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for 18 premium Sardinian red wines

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