I have been happily participating in the tasting panels for the Guida dei Vini della Sardegna by Vinodabere.it for a few years now.
Every time I am asked for my opinion, I struggle. The more than 600 wines we taste each year represent a true rollercoaster ride for me, which is why I find it hard to answer this question. Often, I try to challenge some common beliefs, like the idea that Sardinia is only “Vermentino and Cannonau,” or that Cannonau is a only “strong and powerful” wine, or other misconceptions that no longer reflect the reality of the situation.
For me, the word Cannonau, even though it may sound strange, is linked to the word “elegance.”
If you want to bribe me, use the word Mandrolisai.
If you ask me about a grape variety, I will say Bovale.
If you offer me a glass while I’m on the couch, please try to bring me a Moscato di Cagliari or a Malvasia di Bosa.
If I want to shake myself out of my stupor, I go for a Vernaccia di Oristano.
I could go on and on. I could talk endlessly about this region that fills my notebook every year with page after page of tasting notes and scores, but in the end, after what I consider to be “a great effort,” it always leaves me wanting to do it again.
A region of great love affairs. And this year, no one should take offense, but it’s the turn of Ilaria Addis and her Madrighe. That half bottle, a leftover from a day of tastings, I once paired with the most varied dishes and, on the occasion of La Sardegna di Vinodabere 2025, fate had it that I came across it again for the first taste.
It’s a Vermentino. It’s fleshy, salty, with a delightful maceration. A wine that makes me come back for more, sip after sip.
My wine for 2024, and I hope no one takes offense.
And finally, since my friend Maurizio Valeriani gave me the chance to make this discovery, I am pleased to pass the word to him to share some thoughts about this event and the wines of Sardinia.
