Cannonau: Characterful red wine from the island of Sardinia
Cannonau di Sardegna – a wine legend from the Mediterranean
Cannonau di Sardegna is one of the best-known names for Italian red wine from Sardinia. The Cannonau grape variety, known in other countries as Grenache or Garnacha, has established itself on the island as a distinct identity. The wine impresses with its powerful structure, ruby red colour and intense aromas. It is a product with a long history, deeply rooted in the island's tradition.
Origin and significance of Cannonau
The Cannonau grape is thought to originate in the eastern Mediterranean. However, in Sardinia, the grape variety has developed into a cultural asset in its own right. The designation ‘Cannonau di Sardegna DOC’ stands for controlled origin and guarantees that the wine comes from this special region. The grapes for wines with the addition ‘Classico’ must be grown exclusively in the provinces of Nuoro and Ogliastra, which also include regions such as Jerzu and Oliena. The combination of poor soils, sun, wind and altitude gives the wines their distinctive character.
Grape variety with Mediterranean flair
The Cannonau grape variety is one of the oldest in the Mediterranean. Known as Grenache in France and Garnacha in Spain, it develops its own unique character in Sardinia. The specific grape varieties authorised for the production of Cannonau wines play a decisive role and emphasise the ampelographic composition and the permitted blends with other regional grape varieties. The difference lies mainly in the climate, ripening and cultivation. The vines are deeply rooted in the island's mineral soils, which gives the wines structure and complexity.
Colour, aroma and taste
Cannonau di Sardegna wines are bright ruby red in colour. The nose reveals aromas of ripe plums, dark berries, Mediterranean herbs and subtle spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with balanced acidity, ripe tannins and a long finish. Notes of dried fruit, spices and slightly balsamic elements round out the profile.
Ageing in wooden barrels
An essential part of many Cannonau wines is ageing in wooden barrels. Barrel ageing gives the wine additional depth, warmer tones and an elegant balance. Depending on the winemaker's tradition and the length of ageing, the wine can exhibit creamy vanilla notes, smoky elements or a delicate toasted aroma.
Wines in the ‘Riserva’ category must meet certain minimum ageing requirements in wooden barrels in order to denote a higher wine quality.
The Sardinia region as a wine terroir
Sardinia is an island with a long tradition of winegrowing and diverse microclimates. The vineyard area in Sardinia is crucial for the production of DOC wines and underlines the importance of the growing areas for wine quality and origin.
Cannonau grapes thrive particularly well in the central and eastern parts of the island, where the climate is dry and warm, but the nights are cool, which favours the growth of the vines. The soils, composed of granite, slate or volcanic ash, promote the development of intense aromas. These natural conditions are ideal for full-bodied, structured red wines.
A multifaceted culinary companion
Cannonau is a red wine that pairs well with a variety of meat dishes. It goes particularly well with grilled lamb and traditional Sardinian dishes such as suckling pig or kid. It is especially good with game dishes such as venison medallions with rosemary jus, braised wild boar or venison pepper. Classic Italian cuisine – such as pasta with beef ragù or aubergine gratin – is also a perfect match.
For cheese lovers, we recommend pairing it with mature pecorino or blue cheese. The wine is even an exciting accompaniment to chocolate with a high cocoa content and berry aromas. Its structure, alcohol content and depth make it a favourite among Sardinians and a versatile wine.
Serving temperature and glass selection
For full enjoyment, a serving temperature of 16 to 18 degrees Celsius is recommended. A bulbous glass with a wide opening – such as a Burgundy glass – is ideal for allowing the complex aromas to unfold. This allows the wine to reveal its full power and elegance on the palate.
Product and format information
Cannonau is available in different bottle sizes, with Fattorie Isola producing around 30,000 bottles of wine annually. The 75cl bottle is particularly popular and ideal for two to four people. Some products are also available in magnum bottles or smaller sizes. The product page in the shop provides a detailed description of each bottle, including information on the grape variety, alcohol content, ageing and region. All prices include VAT, so there are no hidden costs for the customer.
A wine with history and a future
Cannonau di Sardegna is more than just a drink. A visit to a winery is essential to understand the quality and tradition of the wines. It is an expression of a long history, a special terroir and the passion of Sardinia's winemakers. A visit to a winery offers insights into authentic winemaking and the dedication that goes into every drop. Those who buy this wine are choosing authenticity, character and the experience of a true Sardinian classic. Vigne Deriu, a warm-toned red wine with complex aromas, is exemplary of the family tradition and craftsmanship of Sardinian vineyards.
FAQ about the Cannonau grape variety
What grape variety is Cannonau?
Cannonau is the Sardinian name for Grenache, a Mediterranean grape variety with a long history.
What is Cannonau in English?
In English, Cannonau refers to the same grape variety as Grenache – a powerful, fruit-driven red wine.
What does Cannonau taste like?
Cannonau tastes of ripe berries, herbs, plums and spices, often with silky tannins and good structure.
Is Cannonau a Sardinian wine?
Yes, Cannonau di Sardegna is a classic red wine from the island of Sardinia.
Which is the best Cannonau?
That depends on personal taste, but wines with long ageing and barrel ageing are considered particularly high quality.
What type of wine is Cannonau di Sardegna?
Cannonau di Sardegna is a dry, aromatic red wine with a protected designation of origin (DOC).
What is a typical red wine from Sardinia?
Cannonau di Sardegna is probably the best known and most typical red wine from Sardinia.