Montessu comes from Sulcis Iglesiente, a region within southwest Sardinia whose brown earth has sandy soil that is a mixture of clay and limestone. This combines with warm, well-exposed terrain to form ideal conditions to produce great red wines. The blend’s predominant grape is Carignano, an indigenous variety that gives Montessu its soft and elegant tannins. Exceptional vine growing conditions are also ideal for the international varieties Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Low base production per hectare (about 6,000 liters/ha) and the climate conditions favor optimal phenolic maturation. Hand harvested grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation. Each variety is vinified separately, and the wine is transferred to French oak barriques. The wine ages for about 12 months in barrel then rests for about 45 days in cement tanks and 3 months in bottle. The final composition varies each year based on the specific conditions of each harvest.

90 Points
Wine Spectator
2020 vintage
92 Points
jamessuckling.com
2020 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2020 season was generally normal, although with little rain in winter and spring. Summer continued with dry conditions and no heat spikes, allowing a regular maturation during August. Merlot was harvested at the end of August and were of good quality. The weather in September continued to be stable and brought in a good selection of grapes. Overall, the grapes were of good quality and quantity.
Tasting Note
A deep violet color, the wine presents aromas of red fruits and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with black fruit flavors and soft, saline notes along with elegant traces of capers, rosemary, and black pepper. The finish is long and silky.
Food Pairing
Grilled steak, lamb, spicy pasta dishes.
Technical Data
GRAPES: Carignano (60%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Cabernet Franc (10%), Merlot (10%), Syrah (10%)
APPELLATION: Isola dei Nuraghi IGT
PH: 3.75
ACIDITY: 5.15 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 12 months in French oak barrels
Unique Selling Points
  • A robust and modern Carignano-based blend
  • Aged for 12 months in French oak barriques
  • Agricola Punica was founded by an all-star team of winemakers in 2002

About the Grape

Carignan
Carignan has an alluring blend of violet, spice, wild herb, red and black currant, and forest floor characters. Its assertive acidity and rustic gamey characters are great blending elements.
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