Crùu (2024) - Cantina Dessena

In the heart of Barbagia, among the rugged mountains and wild landscapes of Sardinia, stands Cantina Dessena, guardian of a rare and fascinating grape variety: Arvisionadu. This almost forgotten variety has been brought back to life thanks to the passion and dedication of the Dessena family. Legend has it that Arvisionadu was the favourite wine of an ancient Nuragic chieftain, who considered it a gift from the gods for its ability to instil courage and wisdom. Today, under the Isola dei Nuraghi IGT appellation, Crùu is a bridge between past and present, a tribute to the history and culture of a unique area.

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.

What to eat with Crùu

Who makes it: Cantina Dessena

Cantina Dessena is a well-established winery in the heart of Sardinia, in Benetutti, a village whose land is rich in history and tradition. Here the vineyards lie at an altitude of 400 m above sea level, where the rare Arvisionadu grape variety finds its ideal habitat. The winery is set in the striking landscape of the Goceano, a hilly and mountainous area that includes one of the highest peaks on the island. Cantina Dessena is known for wines that express the unique features of the Sardinian land at their best. The vineyards, planted on sandy soil formed by the breakdown of granite and enriched with small amounts of clay and quartz, give the wines an unmistakable complexity and personality. The wines produced by the winery belong to the Isola dei Nuraghi IGT appellation, which represents the excellence of Sardinian winegrowing.

The vine of Crùu

Arvisionadu

Arvisionadu is a white grape variety native to Sardinia, particularly rare and fascinating. Grown mainly in the province of Nuoro, this variety represents a deep link with Sardinian winegrowing tradition, carrying with it the history and biodiversity of the island. Thanks to its freshness and aromatic complexity, Arvisionadu gives rise to elegant, mineral white wines with a unique character.

Crùu: the Barbagia area

Climate: Mediterranean

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Island

Profile of Crùu

Primary aromas: White flowers, White fruit

Secondary aromas: Mediterranean herbs, Spices

Tertiary aromas: Leather

Tasting notes: A white wine with notes of ripe fruit and a touch of spice, with good structure and a persistent finish.