Cagnulari (2023) - Vinicola Cherchi
In the heart of Sardinia, at Usini, the Vinicola Cherchi keeps a secret that goes back a long way: Cagnulari. This almost forgotten variety was brought back into the spotlight thanks to the passion of Giovanni Cherchi, the founder of the winery. In the '70s Cherchi decided to rediscover and champion this indigenous variety, convinced of its unique potential. His instinct proved right, turning Cagnulari into a symbol of Sardinian wine revival. Today Isola dei Nuraghi IGT celebrates that tradition, telling a story of dedication and love for the land.
Cagnulari (2023) - Vinicola Cherchi
Type: Red Wine
Appellation: Isola dei Nuraghi IGT
Grape variety: Cagnulari
Vintage: 2023
Winery: Vinicola Cherchi
Alcohol: 14%
The appellation: Isola dei Nuraghi IGT
The Isola dei Nuraghi IGT is an appellation that represents the excellence and versatility of Sardinian winemaking. Introduced in 1995, this Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) covers the whole territory of the island, allowing producers to express the richness of Sardinia’s native varieties and to experiment with international ones, while always keeping a strong bond with the unique terroir of Sardinia.
Find out more about Isola dei Nuraghi IGTWhat to eat with Cagnulari
Who makes it: Vinicola Cherchi
Vinicola Cherchi is a well-established winegrowing business in the heart of Sardinia, in Usini. This winery stands out for its dedication to producing high-quality wines, an authentic expression of the Sardinian land and its traditions. The Isola dei Nuraghi IGT appellation is an important recognition for the wines born in this area, marked by a deep bond with the land and the local culture. Vinicola Cherchi's philosophy rests on: Tradition and innovation, a combination that enriches every bottle Respect for the environment, sustainable practices in the vineyard and in the cellar Quality and passion, essential ingredients in every wine Accessibility: wines designed for every occasion
Read more about Vinicola CherchiThe vine of Cagnulari
Cagnulari
Cagnulari is a native black grape variety typical of the Italian winemaking tradition. This variety is known for its ability to adapt to different soils and climates, helping to produce wines of great character and personality. Its history is deeply rooted in local culture, where it is grown using traditional methods that bring out its particular features.
Find out moreCagnulari: the Usini area
Usini
Usini is a charming village known for its winemaking tradition, rooted in centuries of history. The area is marked by a hilly landscape that offers an ideal microclimate for growing vines. The wines produced in Usini are the result of a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, with particular attention to quality and sustainability. The area is famous for its red, white and rosé wines, which reflect the unique terroir of Sardinia.
Read more about UsiniClimate: Mediterranean
Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)
Soil: Limestone / chalk
Geographical setting: Hilly
Profile of Cagnulari
Primary aromas: Ripe red fruit, Berries
Secondary aromas: Mediterranean herbs, Spices
Tasting notes: An intense red wine with notes of wild berries and spice, typical of the Usini area.
| Sulphites | yes |
| Body | Full-bodied |
| Acidity | Medium-high |
| Tannin | Medium-high |
| Sweetness | Dry |
| Finish | Media |
| Colour | Ruby red |
| Clarity | Clear |
Winemaking methods used for Cagnulari
Stainless steel winemaking for freshness and aromas
Stainless steel winemaking is a modern, versatile technique, particularly prized for producing fresh, aromatic and lively wines. Thanks to the use of stainless steel tanks, fermentation takes place in a neutral, controlled environment, preserving the primary characteristics of the grape variety and of the terroir as fully as possible. This approach makes it possible to obtain wines that clearly express their varietal personality and a pleasant lightness.What is Stainless Steel Winemaking? Stainless steel winemaking involves the use of stainless steel tanks during alcoholic fermentation and, often, during ageing as well. These vessels guarantee a hygienic, controlled environment, free from outside influences that might alter the aromatic profile of the wine. What is more, precise temperature control helps develop fresh, fruity aromas, avoiding oxidation or unwanted fermentations. Advantages of Stainless Steel WinemakingPreserving freshness: the primary aromas of the grape variety remain intact. Temperature control: it allows slow, steady fermentations, bringing out the aromas and the structure. Aromatic purity: stainless steel adds no outside flavours, guaranteeing an authentic product.Stages of Stainless Steel Winemaking 1. Harvest and Pressing The grapes are picked at the right degree of ripeness and gently pressed to obtain a clean, high-quality must. 2. Settling the Must The must is clarified to remove any solid residues, ensuring a clean fermentation. 3. Fermentation in Stainless Steel Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with strict temperature control (generally between 10°C and 18°C for whites and rosés). 4. Stabilisation After fermentation, the wine is left to rest in the tanks to refine and stabilise, before bottling.Characteristics of the Resulting Wines ColourWhites: bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. Rosés: delicate tones of pale pink or salmon. Light reds: pale ruby red with lively transparency.AromasFruity: notes of citrus, peach, green apple and berries. Floral: hints of white flowers, violets or dog rose. Mineral: fresh, saline nuances, typical of certain terroirs.TasteFresh and lively: with balanced acidity and a light body. Harmonious: perfect for drinking young and informally.Grape Varieties Ideal for Stainless Steel Winemaking White Grape VarietiesVermentino: perfect for bringing out freshness and minerality. Sauvignon Blanc: aromatic and vibrant, with citrus and tropical fruit notes.Black Grape VarietiesPinot Nero: ideal for rosés and light, elegant reds. Montepulciano: perfect for fresh, fruity rosés.Why Choose a Wine Made in Stainless Steel? A wine made in stainless steel is the essence of freshness and varietal purity, perfect for anyone looking for intense aromas, liveliness and lightness. Ideal for aperitifs, light dishes and convivial moments, these wines are a true tribute to nature and to the quality of the grapes.
Find out moreAgeing methods used for Cagnulari
In stainless steel
Ageing in stainless steel is a winemaking practice aimed at preserving the freshness, aromatic integrity and varietal purity of the wine. It is used above all for white, rosé and young red wines, but also for light, easy-drinking reds that do not require maturation in wood. Stainless steel vessels are inert and impermeable to oxygen, so they do not interact with the wine: this makes it possible to bring out the fruity, floral and mineral component of the grape and of the terroir.
Find out moreTime on the lees for Cagnulari
- No contact with the lees