Cannonau, Sardinia’s most famous red grape variety, finds its purest expression in this elegant and balanced wine from Audarya.
Vineyards
The Cannonau grapes are grown in Audarya’s vineyards, situated at altitudes of 150 to 200 metres above sea level. The vines are trained using the traditional bush vine system, which thrives in the island’s limestone, marl, and clay soils. The Mediterranean climate, with cooling breezes from the Gulf, ensures slow and even ripening, allowing the grapes to develop complex flavours while maintaining freshness and acidity.
Winemaking
The grapes are harvested by hand and undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve their fresh fruit character. Soft pressing and natural decanting are employed to gently extract the flavours, with no oak ageing used in this wine to maintain the purity of the Cannonau grape. The 2019/2020 vintage has an alcohol content of 14%, balancing richness with freshness.
Appearance
Bright ruby red with purple hues.
Nose
The nose is rich and inviting, with aromas of red cherries, wild berries, and subtle floral notes, alongside hints of herbs and spices.
Palate
On the palate, Cannonau is smooth and medium-bodied, with vibrant flavours of ripe red fruit, plum, and a touch of black pepper. The wine has soft tannins and a fresh acidity, leading to a balanced, elegant finish with a slight mineral edge.
Food pairing
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, particularly pork and lamb, as well as tomato-based pasta dishes and hard cheeses. Its freshness and balance make it an ideal companion for Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Accolades
- 92 points from Gambero Rosso
- 91 points from Decanter
Background story
Audarya, an ancient Sanskrit word meaning “nobility of spirit,” reflects the humble devotion of the Sardinian farmers who have tended their vineyards for generations. This spirit forms the foundation of Audarya’s exceptional wines, crafted by the Pala family, who have been involved in winemaking for over 80 years. About ten years ago, siblings Nicoletta and Salvatore Pala, then in their twenties, decided to continue their family’s winemaking tradition. With the guidance and blessing of their father, Enrico, they founded Audarya, the newest winery on the island. We met them at their first visit to the
London Wine Fair, we agreed to work with them and Matthew Jukes gave us our first listing the very same day. A decision well made!
Situated in the southeast of the island, Audarya's vineyards span four distinct estates: Audarya, Acquasassa, Su Stani, and Is Crabilis. These vineyards, averaging 25 years old, are located at altitudes of 150 to 200 metres above sea level, benefiting from the sea air of the Gulf. The unique terroirs, characterised by limestone, marl, and clay soils, combined with the traditional Sardinian head-trained, short-espaliered bush vines, create an ideal environment for viticulture. The Pala family cultivates only local and autochthonous grape varieties, embracing the region’s ancient winemaking traditions.
Their approach integrates modern best practices, such as time and temperature-controlled fermentation, with gentle handling techniques like soft pressing and natural decanting to maximise the flavour and aroma expressions of the grapes. Cellar intervention is minimal, and they avoid oak aging, except for their Nuracada Bovale. Top 95+ scores from international critics are plentiful, and multiple much-coveted Tre Bicchieri awards at the Gambero Rosso on several wines highlight the exceptional quality and distinctiveness of Audarya's range.
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