Montessu is named after the largest archaeological site in Sardinia, located near Agricola Punica’s second estate of Narcao within the Basso Sulcis region in southwest Sardinia. The Sulcis region is dominated by Carignano, an indigenous grape that is known for its elegant and velvety tannins. Carignano thrives in the local climate and well-exposed brown earth composed of calcareous clay and sandy soil. Winters are mild and summers are hot and dry, with an extraordinary average of seven hours of sunlight daily that fully ripens sun-loving grapes like Carignano. The Mediterranean Sea regulates the extreme summer heat and stabilizes the climate.

Production per hectare is low (about 6,000 liters/ha). Hand harvested grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation. Each variety is vinified separately, and the wine is transferred to French oak barriques (2-3 years old) with a medium toast. The wine ages for 12 months then rests for about 45 days in cement tanks before being bottled without filtration. Released after 3 months in bottle. The final composition varies each year based on the specific conditions of each harvest.

Harvest Note
The 2022 vintage was similar to recent vintages in Sardinia. After a rainy November and December, the rest of the winter was dry. Spring was also lacking in rainfall, with only some showers in April. The summer was long and hot, yet without the heat waves characteristic of previous vintages. A dry September allowed for a regular harvest. The quality of the grapes was good with enough acidity and phenolic concentration. Samas remains at a top quality this vintage.
Tasting Note
The 2022 vintage was similar to recent vintages in Sardinia. After a rainy November and December, the rest of the winter was dry. Spring was also lacking in rainfall, with only some showers in April. The summer was long and hot, yet without the heat waves characteristic of previous vintages. A dry September allowed for a regular harvest. The quality of the grapes was good with enough acidity and phenolic concentration. Samas remains at a top quality this vintage.
Food Pairing
Grilled steak, lamb, spicy pasta dishes
Technical Data
GRAPES: Carignano (60%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Cabernet Franc (10%), Merlot (10%), Syrah (10%)
PH: 3.8
ACIDITY: 5.25
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 12 months in French oak barrels
Unique Selling Points
  • High quality wines with an international outlook from Sardinia
  • A robust and modern blend based on Carignano, an indigenous variety
  • 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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