The Terroir of Sardinia
The coastal plains of Sardinia are characterized by their proximity to the sea, which has a profound impact on the local microclimate. The sea breeze provides a cooling effect, preventing excessive heat accumulation during the day and preserving acidity in the grapes. This coastal influence is particularly evident in wines produced in areas such as the Campidano plain and the vineyards surrounding the city of Cagliari.
The sandy and alluvial soils of the coastal plains contribute to the freshness and vibrancy of the wines. These soils have excellent drainage properties, ensuring that the vines do not become waterlogged. As a result, the grapes grown in these areas tend to have concentrated flavors and well-balanced acidity. Vermentino, a white grape variety, thrives in the coastal vineyards, producing wines with crisp citrus notes and a hint of saline minerality.
Moving inland, we encounter the hilly and mountainous regions of Sardinia. Here, the altitude plays a crucial role in shaping the terroir. As the elevation increases, so does the diurnal temperature variation. The warm daytime temperatures encourage the grapes to ripen fully, while the cool nights help to preserve their acidity and develop complex flavors.
The soils found in the mountainous areas of Sardinia are diverse, ranging from limestone and granite to clay and schist. These varied soil compositions contribute to the diversity of wines produced in the region. Cannonau, the island’s signature red grape variety, thrives in the rugged terrain, producing wines with deep red fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a distinctive earthy character.
In the northwestern part of Sardinia, the renowned wine region of Gallura stands out. This area is home to the exclusive denomination of origin Vermentino di Gallura, known for its exceptional quality. The granite soils found in Gallura impart a unique mineral character to the wines, complementing their vibrant acidity and aromatic intensity. Vermentino di Gallura is often described as one of Italy’s finest expressions of this grape variety.
Moving further inland, we find the subregion of Barbagia, known for its rugged landscapes and traditional winemaking practices. The vineyards here are nestled among granite mountains, and the altitude ranges from 500 to 1,000 meters above sea level. The cooler climate and the distinctive soils of Barbagia contribute to the production of elegant red wines, dominated by the indigenous grape varieties like Monica and Cannonau.
In the southern part of Sardinia, the Sulcis region showcases a unique terroir influenced by its proximity to the sea and the volcanic soils. The vineyards in Sulcis benefit from the cooling sea breezes and the mineral-rich soils derived from ancient volcanic activity. Carignano del Sulcis, a red grape variety, thrives in this area, producing wines with rich black fruit flavors, robust structure, and a hint of smokiness.
The terroir of Sardinia, with its coastal influences, varied soils, and altitudes, imparts a distinct character to the island’s wines. Whether it’s the crisp and saline Vermentino from the coastal plains, the robust and earthy Cannonau from the mountainous regions, or the mineral-driven Vermentino di Gallura from the granite soils, Sardinian wines offer a wide range of flavors and styles that reflect the island’s unique terroir.
FRANCESCO PRESTINI
- Owner of iWina shops and iWina.pl
- Wine Blogger wineopener.pl & medium.com/@wineopener.pl
- Books: STORES — AMAZON
- Wine importer ecoshurtowniawin.com