Carignano del Sulcis DOC

The Carignano del Sulcis DOC is one of the most representative appellations of Sardinia south-western, established in 1977, and dedicated to the grape variety Carignano, grown here in unique conditions: sandy soils, bush vines often pre-phylloxera, a warm, breezy climate.

This DOC takes its name from the historic region of Sulcis, which includes the coastal and inland municipalities around Carbonia, Sant’Antioco and Calasetta, and produces red wines of great softness, warmth and intensity, sometimes even Riserva, passito and rosé wines.


Production area

  • Region: Sardinia

  • Province: South Sardinia (formerly Carbonia-Iglesias)

  • Main municipalities: Carbonia, Sant’Antioco, Calasetta, Narcao, Giba, Portoscuso

  • Soils: sandy, loose, often close to the sea

  • Climate: dry, windy Mediterranean, ideal for growing without invasive treatments


Main grape variety

  • Carignano: minimum 85%

  • Up to 15% of other black grape varieties authorised in Sardinia

  • In the best versions: 100% Carignano from bush-trained vines


Types provided for

TypeCharacteristics
Carignano del Sulcis Rosso DOCYoung, fruity, soft
SuperioreAt least 12,5% vol, minimum ageing 1 year
RiservaMinimum ageing 2 years, of which at least 6 months in wood
RoséFragrant, dry, fresh
PassitoA sweet wine from dried grapes, intense and spicy

Sensory profile

Colour:

  • Deep ruby red, with purple highlights

Nose:

  • Ripe berries, cherry, blackberry

  • Sweet spices, black pepper, balsamic notes

  • Hints of myrtle, rosemary, liquorice

Palate:

  • Soft, warm, enveloping

  • Sweet, well-melded tannins

  • A balance between fruit and savouriness, with a long, Mediterranean finish


Food pairings

  • Roast lamb, Sardinian suckling pig

  • Mixed grills, braised red meat

  • Aged Pecorino Sardo, blue cheeses

  • Pasta with wild boar ragù, malloreddus alla campidanese


Why choose a Carignano del Sulcis DOC

Expression pure, of Mediterranean Carignano
Ideal for anyone who loves reds warm, velvety and spicy
Showcases historic bush vines, some of them pre-phylloxera
Excellent value for money, including in the craft reserves

Carignano del Sulcis DOC: My personal top three

All those I have tried