2020 l’Ariosa Pedrastella Isola dei Nuraghi Igt

Producer: Tenuta L’Ariosa (Fratelli Rau)

Tenuta L’Ariosa is the modern wine project of the Rau family, whose roots in Sardinia date back to 1926 via their origins in distillation and local liqueur production  . Today, the winery remains a family-run enterprise—three generations strong—driven by a passionate commitment to expressing the terroir of northwest Sardinia, where rugged soils, sea breezes, and Mediterranean scrub define the vineyards  . Their estates focus on authentic Sardinian indigenous varietals, cultivated with care and modern precision, yet deeply rooted in tradition  .

Grape: Carignano (Carignan / Bovale Grande)

The Pedrastella is crafted exclusively from the Carignano grape (also known as Carignan, Cariñena, or Bovale Grande in Sardinia). Carignano is native to Sardinia’s Sulcis region and thrives in its hot, dry, windy Mediterranean climate and sandy soils  .

Viticultural and sensory profile:

• Appearance: Bright ruby red with youthful purple reflections  .

• Aromas: Fresh and expressive, evoking red and dark berries (plum, currant, mulberries), with Mediterranean herb and spice undertones—licorice, black pepper, tobacco, and sometimes cedar or clove  .

• Palate: Full-bodied yet balanced; the wine displays firm but velvety tannins, bright acidity, and a long, persistent finish—a hallmark of quality Carignano  .

Tasting Notes: 2020 Pedrastella Isola dei Nuraghi IGT

Appearance

Deep, glistening ruby red with vivid purple highlights, offering a captivating visual allure.

Nose

Expressive aromas of ripe dark berries—blackberry, black cherry—interlaced with Mediterranean herbs and a bold, spicy overlay of black pepper and leather. A subtle hint of tobacco or forest floor adds complexity  .

Palate

Lush and seductive, with a medium to full body. The palate unfolds with concentrated dark fruit flavors—mulberry, plum—which are complemented by a fine, spicy core and elegant tannins. The texture is smooth and velvety, leading to a long, resonant finish that is both powerful and refined  .

Structure & Balance

The wine is well-structured, showing polished tannins and balanced acidity, giving it both elegance and longevity. Its full-bodied nature is tailored for both immediate enjoyment and further cellaring.

Pairing Suggestions

Ideal accompaniments include robust Sardinian cuisine and rich fare: red meats, especially roasted or stewed, hearty pasta with savory sauces, aged pecorino or other hard cheeses, and traditional specialties like porceddu (suckling pig) or lamb stew  .

Summary

The 2020 Pedrastella is an outstanding single-varietal Carignano that showcases both the authenticity of Sardinian terroir and the precision of Tenuta L’Ariosa’s craftsmanship. It offers an inviting bouquet of dark fruit, herbs, and spice, married with a velvety yet structured palate and a lingering, full-bodied finish. Sophisticated and versatile, this wine is a vivid expression of regional identity and winemaking finesse.