Montessu Isola dei Nuraghi IGT 2018
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Italy / Sardinia
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, a local variety which gives Montessu soft, elegant tannins and high pH. 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. The final blend for Montessu is a mix of grapes balanced for the best results in the specific conditions of each harvest.
Harvest Note
Among the grapes harvested for Montessu, Merlot was ready first. Followed by Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carignano harvesting last. Some unusual rains came during the critical times, but in the end all was harvested in time and the fruit picked had good balance.
Tasting Note
The wine has notes of cherry, raspberry and ripe fruit, myrtle and juniper. In mouth, the wine has full-bodied black fruit flavors, with soft, saline notes, with elegant traces of rosemary and black pepper, enhancing a long, silky finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 60% Carignano, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, 10% Syrah
APPELLATION: Isola dei Nuraghi IGT
PH: 3.8
ACIDITY: 5.14 g/l
ABV: 14.37%
AGING: Matured 12 months in French oak barrels (no new)
Unique Selling Points
- A modern blend made primarily from the Carignano grape
- Matured 12 months in French oak barrels (no new)
Besides having all the characteristics of a great terroir, the south-west corner of Sardinia where Barrua and Narcao are located has a great quality of light which makes the maturations of the grapes perfect and very complex.
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.
