Cannonau di Sardegna
About the wine
Cannonau di Sardegna is the most iconic and widely planted red wine denomination in Sardinia, representing the island's viticultural identity. Based primarily on the Cannonau grape (a local biotype of Grenache/Garnacha), the DOC encompasses a vast range of styles, from fresh Rosato and standard Rosso to structured Riserva, sweet Passito, and fortified Liquoroso. The wines are characterized by their Mediterranean soul, typically displaying notes of red and black fruits, Mediterranean scrub, and balsamic undertones, with a warm, sapid, and often tannic profile. The 'Classico' designation, reserved for the provinces of Nuoro and Ogliastra, mandates higher minimum grape percentages and stricter aging requirements, reflecting the historical heartland of the variety. The diverse Sardinian terroir—ranging from granitic soils in the north to limestone and basaltic formations in the center—imparts distinct nuances to the wine, which is celebrated for its longevity and deep connection to the island's rugged landscape.
Grape varieties
Production & aging
The production zone covers the entire territory of the Sardinia region. The 'Classico' sub-zone is restricted to the provinces of Nuoro and Ogliastra. Specific sub-zones with delimited boundaries include Oliena (or Nepente di Oliena) in the province of Nuoro, Capo Ferrato in the province of Cagliari, and Jerzu in the province of Ogliastra.