Blog: Cagnulari | Grape variety

Cagnulari: Part of the Sardinian wine tradition
Cagnulari, a rare and fascinating grape variety, gives wines from Sardinia a unique personality. With its low yield and deep roots in the island's history, this grape produces wines of impressive depth and variety of aromas. Let's delve into the world of Cagnulari and explore its unique qualities.

The growing area and the terroir
The Cagnulari grape grows mainly in the area around Sassari in Sardinia. The Mediterranean climate, the warm sunshine and the mineral soils of this region give the grapes a remarkable intensity and complexity. The low yield of the vines and the late harvest in October contribute to the development of wines that are characterized by a deep color and strong aroma.

The Cagnulari grape
The berry is black, medium-sized, spherical with a thick, firm, black-purple skin. The cluster is medium-sized, cylindrical-conical, sometimes winged, semi-dense with a large, three-lobed leaf. The Cagnulari variety has medium vigor and a medium-late ripening period. The Cagnulari vine produces a ruby red wine. The bouquet is fruity with hints of berries. On the palate, it is structured and complex, typically warm and soft.

The wines and their taste
Wines made from the Cagnulari grape are known for their elegance and finesse. With their ruby red color and fruity bouquet reminiscent of berries, they seduce the senses and invite you to linger. On the palate, Cagnulari wines are structured and complex, typically warm and soft. Their ability to mature and develop over time makes them sought-after companions for special moments.

Use in cuveés and ageing in wooden barrels
The Cagnulari grape is often vinified as a single variety, but can also be blended in cuveés with other grape varieties such as Cannonau to produce interesting and structured wines. Some winemakers choose to age their Cagnulari wines in wooden barrels to give them additional depth and complexity. The careful use of oak gives the wines subtle nuances and emphasizes their characteristic features.

History and significance
The Cagnulari vine has a long history in Sardinia and is closely linked to the island's wine tradition. Its importance goes back a long way and has been preserved over the years. Today, the Cagnulari grape variety is experiencing a renaissance as wine lovers rediscover and appreciate its unique qualities and unmistakable character.

Food recommendations
The elegant and structured Cagnulari wines harmonize perfectly with Sardinian cuisine. Try them with grilled meat, hearty stews or traditional Sardinian dishes such as Malloreddus alla Campidanese (Sardinian pasta with sausage and tomato sauce). Cagnulari wines also develop their full potential with strong cheeses such as Pecorino or Fiore Sardo and offer an unforgettable taste experience.

Overall, the Cagnulari grape variety embodies the elegance and diversity of the Sardinian wine world. With its unique qualities and rich history, it enriches the wine culture of Sardinia and conquers the hearts of wine lovers worldwide. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Cagnulari wines and let yourself be enchanted by their incomparable beauty. - Gerardo [TS03/24]