Vinzas Artas “Granatza”

BIanco di barbagia, ITALY |  2021

We will go to the ends of the earth to find you great wine!

Such is the case with this discovery from the beautiful island of Sardinia. Last October, Craig traveled to Sardinia for a few days in search of small producers, that are producing great wines in their respective region. Traveling into Barbagia, located in central Sardinia, one feels the isolation, after all this is one of the least populated places in Europe. The name Barbagia comes from “Barbarians,” and was a name given during Roman times by a Senator from Rome. This was one of the places that the Romans could never overtake and occupy. The people that live in this region take pride in their tough reputation, and are extremely proud of where they come from.

Mamoiada is a small village in the Nuora province that is one of the truly great terroirs of Sardinia. The pride of Mamoiada is the red grape varietal called Cannonau, a synonym for Grenache. The majority of wines produced in Mamoiada are made from old vine Cannonau. A small amount of white wine is also produced in the granitic soils of the region, an indigenous varietal called Grantaza.

Brothers Giorgio and Piercarlo Gaia farm 5 hectares of vineyards, all between the altitudes of 650 to 850 meters. They farm organically and work with naturally low yielding vines. Their expression of Granatza is truly special. The 2021 Granatza was hand harvested, fermented with natural yeast and aged on its lees in tank. It has beautiful aromas of citrus peel, mineral and herbs. On the palate it is medium weight, but still has plenty of vibrant acidity. Only 900 bottles were produced. You can pair this with grilled head on prawns or even with roasted pork tenderloin.