Bovale, one of Sardinia’s ancient grape varieties, is elevated to an extraordinary level.
Vineyards
The Bovale grapes are sourced from the Nuracada vineyard, located at altitudes of 150 to 200 metres above sea level. The vineyard’s soils, rich in limestone, marl, and clay, are perfect for cultivating Bovale, a grape known for its deep colour and intense flavours. The Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights, helps the grapes develop complexity while preserving freshness and acidity.
Winemaking
The Bovale grapes are harvested by hand and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Unlike most of Audarya’s wines, Nuracada Bovale undergoes ageing in French oak barrels, where it matures for 12 months. This ageing process adds depth, structure, and subtle oak influence to the wine, while allowing the bold character of Bovale to shine. The 2014 vintage has an alcohol content of 14%.
Appearance
Deep ruby red with garnet reflections.
Nose
The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of blackberries, plums, and cherries, layered with notes of vanilla, tobacco, and spices from the oak ageing.
Palate
On the palate, Nuracada Bovale is full-bodied and rich, with flavours of dark fruits, spices, and a hint of chocolate. The wine has firm yet refined tannins, balanced by a fresh acidity, leading to a long, elegant finish with lingering notes of oak and black fruit.
Food pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as roasted meats, game, and stews. It also complements aged cheeses and rich pasta dishes, making it an ideal choice for robust, flavourful meals.
Accolades
- 93 points from Gambero Rosso
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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