Sardinian Wine Stories

Quartomoro is currently one of the most interesting winemakers in Sardinia. While offering truly distinctive wines from sparkling to sweet, the winery stands out for its project called Memorie di Vite (“Vine’s Memories”), where the producer showcases authentic expressions of Sardinia’s historic grape varieties. This includes Cannonau, Nasco, Bovale, Vermentino, and other lesser-known cultivars. The entire Memorie di Vite line is well worth exploring!

We are here tasting CRG 2022, Quartomoro’s interpretation of Carignano, the emblematic grape of Sulcis in southwest Sardinia (also known as Carignan in southern France, particularly Languedoc, and Mazuelo in Spain). This is a relatively lighter and more approachable take on the variety compared to many other Carignano wines.

Viticulture & Vinification

CRG is a varietal red wine made exclusively from Carignano grapes, sourced from ungrafted bush vines grown on sandy soils in the Calasetta area (Sulcis). The yields are kept low, at less than 50 quintals per hectare.

The harvest is conducted strictly by hand, typically between the second half of September and early October, when the balance between acidity and sugars is optimal. Fermentation is initiated using indigenous yeasts only, ensuring a true expression of the terroir.

After vinification, CRG matures partly in stainless steel and partly in fourth-passage barriques for six months, before undergoing a final refinement in the bottle.

Tasting Profile

• Color: Deep ruby with a purple rim, indicative of Carignano’s naturally high anthocyanin content.
• Aroma: The winemaking choices result in a wine with plenty of primary aromas, complemented by subtle complexity. Expect notes of red fruit (red plum, red cherry) and black fruit (cassis, blackberry, and myrtle – a typical Sardinian black fruit). Additional layers include delicate dried herbs, balsamic notes, and saline hints (thyme, rosemary). Secondary aromas of pastry and yogurt and light tertiary hints of prune, sweet tobacco, and cured meat complete the bouquet.
• Palate: The wine is dry, with an excellent balance between acidity, which lends freshness and elegance, and its full body with a round, almost creamy texture. The tannins are medium and relatively soft, likely due to gentle winemaking techniques that limit extraction – a departure from Carignano’s usual reputation as a highly tannic grape.
• Finish: A lingering, rewarding finish with a dominant fruit character, supported by mild complexity.

Food Pairing & Aging Potential

CRG 2022 is a versatile wine, suited for both casual sipping and food pairings. It works equally well as an apéritif or alongside meat dishes, offering depth without feeling overly serious or heavy.

In terms of aging, the wine’s fresh and fruit-forward nature suggests that it is best enjoyed within five years of harvest. While the 2022 vintage can still evolve for another two to three years, extended cellaring beyond that would likely diminish its vibrant fruit expression.

Final Thoughts

CRG 2022 is a very good example of a lighter, more accessible Carignano, without sacrificing complexity. If you are looking for a balanced, fruit-driven red with Sardinian character, this is a wine to seek out. Enjoy!