Pala Centosere Cannonau di Sardegna 2021

Pala Centosere Cannonau di Sardegna is Sardinia’s answer to Grenache, shaped into a dry, smooth red with plenty of Mediterranean character. Ripe cherry and red berries lead into florals, dried herbs, gentle spice and a touch of orange peel, with fine tannins and fresh acidity keeping the palate lively rather than heavy. The fruit comes from 45-year-old vines planted on calcareous soils around Serdiana and Ussana. Generous, savoury and very easy to get along with, this is an excellent partner for charcuterie, roast poultry, lamb or firm cheese.

What the winery says:

Made entirely from Cannonau, Sardinia’s principal red variety and a member of the Grenache family. The grapes come from the Acquasassa and Is Crabilis vineyards, planted between 150 and 180 metres above sea level. Whole berries are fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel for around 40 days, followed by malolactic fermentation and a further three months resting in tank. The finished wine is vibrant and ripe-fruited, with a dry, smooth palate, good structure and lingering length.

What the experts say:

James Suckling, 91/100
“Sweet berry and cherry aromas with fresh flowers. Burnt orange, too. Medium-bodied, tangy and delicious.”

Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 90/100
“Sour cherries and crushed blackberries are offset by citrus and cedary spice as the Cannonau Centosere opens in the glass.”