Poderi Atha Ruja ‘Kuentu’ Cannonau di Sardegna Reserve DOC 2014

Dorgali, Sardinia, Italy

The Atha Ruja winery represents a rich tradition of wine and wine making that spans back two generations in time. Pietro Pittalis and Anita Salis, have made, by shared passion and choice, their dream become a reality. The winery focuses on producing high-quality wines from three grapes that are typical of Sardinia: Cannonau di Sardegna (Grenache), Carignano and Bovale Sardo.

Their viticultural practices are based on quality cultivation principles; short pruning, leaf-stripping and selective thinning all limit production and improve the characteristics of the grapes. The grapes are grown without the use of pesticides and the vines are managed according to biodynamic principles. The vineyard is treated as a small ecosystem.

Tasting Notes:

This wine was harvested from vines that are over 40 years old. It pours a deep, deep ruby red and it is absolutely packed with complex aromas and flavors. One of the first things you’ll notice is intense aromas of concentrated red berries, herbs, licorice and spices. The wine’s big and rich structure is balanced really beautifully by its tannic complexity and bright acidity; it will make your mouth water.

Pair it With:

We love Cannonau with dishes that are typical of Sardinia - particularly roasts, game meats, pasta dishes and aged cheeses. The wine’s acidity, structured tannin and complex fruit and spice flavors make it an absolute dream alongside a ribeye steak, or any cut that has a little bit of fat to it.

Grape Varieties:

100% Cannonau di Sardegna (Grenache)

Aging:

24 months in French barriques followed by 6 months in bottle.

Quantity Produced:

3,000 bottles

Winemaker:

Dr. Marco Bernabei