Cannonau di Sardegna, Cantina Gungui “Berteru” 2021

Sardegna (anglicized to Sardinia) is technically an Italian state, though it feels worlds removed. Maybe this is because of its actual isolation, being an island off the Tuscan coast, or maybe it’s due to frequent invasions- the native Nuragic people have seen Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Moors, Pisans, Genoese, Austrians, Aragons, and Savoyards invade before finally becoming a part of unified Italy in 1861. Their strategic position in the center of the Mediterranean means the island has seen a steady stream of pirates and migrants as well. All these influxes have led to an identity that is more Mediterranean mongrel than belonging to any one of the numerous influences.

As a result of the constant invasions from the sea, native Sardinians created the majority of their towns and settlements in the hilly inland of the island. It is here in the village of Mammoiada where discontented lawyer-turned-winemaker Luca Gungui farms his bush-trained Cannonau (genetically identical to Grenache and the signature variety of the island). His wines are deeply expressive of the rugged environs in which they are grown, and the moniker Berteru couldn’t be more adept, as it means sincere in the local dialect. This is sauvage and herbal Mediterranean mountain wine with a profound core of red berry fruit. Incorporates about 40% whole-cluster fruit. Take a walk on the wild side!

Must be 21 years old to purchase. ID is required at delivery or in-store pickup.