Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Barrua 2012 750ml

I thought the 2011 was the best ever from this stylish wine producer in Sardinia. But the 2012 is clearly better showing vivid aromas of currants, dried cherry, rosemary, citrus and dried chili. Full body, dense but not heavy center palate, and a long savory, mushroom, mahogany and berry aftertaste. A blend of local varieties with a hint of international ones. Yeah. Drink or hold. (Suckling)

• Country: Italy
• Region: Sardinia
• Appellation: Isola Dei Nuraghi
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red

Varietal

Carignan

Carignan is an ancient blue-skinned grape varietal, thought to be indigenous to the Aragon region of Spain. However, today it is most commonly associated with the fine wines of southern France, and has been grown in many countries around the world which have the warm and dry conditions it requires to thrive. Carignan is recognized as being quite a sensitive vine, highly susceptible to all kinds of rot and mildew, although producing excellent results when given the right conditions and handled correctly. Its high tannin levels and acidity make the Carignan grapes very astringent, and as such, they are often used as a blending grape to give body to other, lesser bodied varietals. Despite this, with careful treatment, Carignan can produce superb single varietal wines packed full of character and unique attributes.