AGRICOLA PUNICA 'Montessu' - IGT Isola dei Nuraghi 2022 Bottle SUS/VGN/VEG

Description

IN BRIEF
Adegás Galegas Salterio Mencía from DO Bierzo is a captivating wine, while the 2022 Isola dei Nuraghi Montessu impresses with an aromatic profile of ripe blackberry, plum, and cherry, complemented by hints of spice, herbs, and earthiness. On the palate, Montessu is full-bodied and velvety, showcasing flavours of dark fruit, black pepper, and a subtle hint of cocoa, leading to a long, savoury finish. Composed of 60% Carignano and 40% blended varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Syrah, it highlights the diversity of Sardinian terroir. Rated 92 points by James Suckling and 93 points by Vinous, this elegant wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats and hearty dishes, making it an excellent choice for various occasions.

ABOUT THIS WINE
On the palate, Montessu is full-bodied, smooth, and velvety, revealing a delightful tapestry of dark fruit, black pepper, and a subtle hint of cocoa. This rich profile culminates in a long, savoury finish that leaves a lasting impression. Its versatility and well-structured nature make it a fantastic choice for pairing with grilled meats and hearty dishes, suitable for a variety of occasions.

Composed of a blend of 60% Carignano, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 10% Syrah, this wine showcases the diversity of Sardinian terroir. The sustainable and vegan-friendly practices used in its production further enhance its appeal. As the 'baby' brother of the Barrua, Montessu comes from younger vines but delivers an impressive wine experience characterized by soft, warm, dark plummy fruit, soft tannins, and lovely length.

Agricola Punica was founded by Sebastiano Rosa, the esteemed winemaker from Sassicaia, alongside the late Tuscan wine consultant Giacomo Tachis. Located in the southeastern corner of Sardinia, within the DOC Carignano del Sulcis, this wine is crafted from old vine Carignan, highlighting the region's vinous potential.

James Suckling has rated it 92 points, noting its intense and rich nose filled with plums, blackcurrants, spices, and dried herbs, describing it as full-bodied and structured with juicy acidity. VINOUS awarded it 93 points, praising its hauntingly dark profile with cedar shavings, sage, and dried black cherry aromas. The wine's silken texture and depth of ripe red berry fruits, coupled with hints of autumnal spice, showcase its complexity and elegance.

Overall, Isola dei Nuraghi Montessu is a beautifully crafted wine that exemplifies the quality and tradition of Sardinian winemaking, offering tremendous value for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

JAMES SUCKLING 92 points
ntense and rich nose of plums, blackcurrants, spices and dried herbs. Full-bodied, structured and dense, with juicy acidity and velvety tannins. Nicely filled with dark fruit. Drink or hold.

VINOUS 93 points
The 2022 Isola dei Nuraghi Montessu is hauntingly dark with a slowly evolving bouquet of cedar shaving, sage, incense and dried black cherry aromas. It’s surprisingly juicy in character yet silken in feel, with depths of ripe red berry fruits complemented by hints of autumnal spice and citrus. A tinge of graphite minerality adds lovely depth as this finishes potent and gently tannic. - Eric Guido.

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ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Agricola Punica is a prestigious winery nestled in the enchanting island region of Sardinia, Italy, renowned for its high-quality wines that showcase the unique characteristics of the Sardinian terroir. Established in 2002 as a collaboration between the renowned Italian winemaker Giacomo Tachis and a group of passionate wine enthusiasts, Agricola Punica has quickly gained a reputation for blending tradition with innovation in the winemaking process.

The estate encompasses approximately 150 hectares of vineyards situated near the coast of Sardinia, where the Mediterranean climate and diverse soils create ideal conditions for grape cultivation. The winery primarily focuses on indigenous grape varieties, including Carignano, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, which thrive in the region's rich landscape. This dedication to local varietals allows Agricola Punica to produce wines that reflect the essence of Sardinia, marked by a distinctive character and depth.

Agricola Punica is particularly celebrated for its flagship wine, **"Barrua,"** a powerful and elegant blend of Carignano, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. This wine is recognised for its rich fruit flavours, velvety tannins, and a long, complex finish, making it a standout representation of Sardinia’s winemaking potential. Other notable offerings from the winery include **"Nuxis,"** a beautifully balanced red wine, and **"Samas,"** a white wine that highlights the island’s aromatic indigenous varietals.

Sustainability and environmental stewardship are integral to Agricola Punica’s philosophy. The winery employs sustainable viticulture practices to protect the unique ecosystem of Sardinia while promoting biodiversity within the vineyards. This commitment to the environment enhances the overall quality of the wines and ensures the preservation of the land for future generations.

As Agricola Punica continues to gain recognition on both national and international stages, it remains dedicated to its roots and the craft of winemaking. Each bottle captures the essence of Sardinia's landscape, culture, and viticultural heritage, inviting wine lovers to explore the rich flavours and stories that define this remarkable region. Whether enjoyed during special occasions or paired with local cuisine, the wines of Agricola Punica offer a delightful celebration of the artistry of Italian winemaking.