Giovanni Montisci

Riserva Barrosu Cannonau di Sardegna Cannonau

9.31 ratings
9.31 pro ratings
Sardinia, Italy
Cannonau
Top Notes For
Shay A
9.3

A few bottles I opened with my buddy Joe Lucca when work brings him to town!

After having the 2021 rosé version last month, I’ve been itching to try the red. Sardinian Cannonau, which is their version of Grenache.

Followed over two days.

Deep ruby with a hint of purple. Initial aromatics show a little smoke, peppered black raspberries, black cherries and sweet florals. The warmth of the wine is noticeable on the palate…cherry jerky, kirsch, rhubarb, spice. Hibiscus tea. The fruit is bright and almost crunchy (not overly ripe). Good acidity. Structure is quite impressive…plenty of tannin on day two. There’s a faint herbal, almost medicinal, note that I find often in Italian reds like barbera and some merlot. The ABV pokes out a bit (15.5), but I suppose that matches their climate.

If poured blind, Grenache (or Grenache blend) would be the call…juicy, bright, peppery, elevated warmth. It comes across as a singular expression, not a big blend. However, there’s no way I’m taking this to Italy…or rather, Sardinia! Decant for an hour, or hold a few more years.

A few bottles I opened with my buddy Joe Lucca when work brings him to town!

After having the 2021 rosé version last month, I’ve been itching to try the red. Sardinian Cannonau, which is their version of Grenache.

Followed over two days.

Deep ruby with a hint of purple. Initial aromatics show a little smoke, peppered black raspberries, black cherries and sweet florals. The warmth of the wine is noticeable on the palate…cherry jerky, kirsch, rhubarb, spice. Hibiscus tea. The fruit is bright and almost crunchy (not overly ripe). Good acidity. Structure is quite impressive…plenty of tannin on day two. There’s a faint herbal, almost medicinal, note that I find often in Italian reds like barbera and some merlot. The ABV pokes out a bit (15.5), but I suppose that matches their climate.

If poured blind, Grenache (or Grenache blend) would be the call…juicy, bright, peppery, elevated warmth. It comes across as a singular expression, not a big blend. However, there’s no way I’m taking this to Italy…or rather, Sardinia! Decant for an hour, or hold a few more years.

Mar 26th, 2025