Sardinian Wine Stories

Today’s tasting note is dedicated to Spèra, a varietal Vermentino di Gallura, produced by Siddùra in Luogosanto, in the heart of Gallura.

Spèra is one of the most representative wines of the estate and a benchmark expression of Vermentino di Gallura, where granite-rich soils give rise to wines of remarkable precision, purity, and aromatic intensity, supported by a distinctive mineral backbone.

Siddùra produces most of its wines in the countryside surrounding Luogosanto, a small inland village of around two thousand inhabitants. Although the winery was established only in 2008, it has rapidly built a strong reputation, particularly for its Vermentino-based wines, which represent the core of its production.

While Spèra stands out as an accessible and immediate expression, the estate also produces more structured interpretations such as Maìa, one of the most complex expressions of Vermentino di Gallura (to be explored in a future post).

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Vineyard and Winemaking

Spèra is produced from estate-owned vineyards located at approximately 150 metres above sea level in the countryside of Luogosanto. The vines are trained using Guyot and cordon spur systems, with yields of around 70 quintals per hectare.

The soils are sandy and of granitic origin, a key factor in shaping the wine’s freshness, elegance, and minerality. The climate of inland Gallura, characterised by sunny days and cool nights, ensures good diurnal temperature variation, which is essential for preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic complexity.

Harvest takes place at optimal ripeness, when the balance between sugar and acidity is ideal. The grapes are hand-harvested and quickly transported to the winery, where they undergo gentle pressing and temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel using selected yeasts.

After alcoholic fermentation, the wine remains in stainless steel on its fine lees for a few months, enhancing its texture, structure, and aromatic complexity, before final bottle ageing.

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Tasting Profile

Appearance:
Pale lemon with delicate greenish reflections, highlighting its freshness.

Nose:
High aromatic intensity, with a refined and layered bouquet of green almond, orange blossom, and white flowers (classic Vermentino markers), alongside apple, citrus zest (lemon and orange), white peach, melon, and Scotch broom. Subtle notes of wet stone, fresh grass, and candied cedar add further complexity.

Palate:
Dry, with medium(+) acidity and 13.5% alcohol, delivering excellent balance. The wine is medium(+) bodied, combining a rounded texture with vibrant freshness. The palate mirrors the nose, with an added saline and mineral edge that enhances precision.

The finish is medium(+), persistent and structured, with a delicate bitter note—a hallmark of Vermentino—that adds further depth and typicity.

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Final Thoughts

Spèra is an accessible yet refined expression of Vermentino di Gallura—an ideal introduction to the denomination. It combines the variety’s signature aromatic profile (bitter almond, floral notes, citrus fruit) with a well-balanced structure, where freshness and vibrancy are complemented by texture and length.

The wine beautifully reflects its terroir: the minerality of granitic soils, the saline influence of sea breezes, and the subtle bitterness typical of Vermentino.

Its elegance, structure, and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of occasions. While it can age for up to 4–5 years, it is at its best when enjoyed young, to fully appreciate its fresh and aromatic character.

In terms of food pairing, Spèra works wonderfully as an apéritif on a warm Sardinian evening, but also pairs beautifully with seafood dishes. Its citrus and stone fruit notes make it an excellent match for crustaceans, particularly aragosta alla catalana. Its aromatic intensity also allows for interesting pairings with Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, especially dishes featuring lemongrass and fresh herbs.