Alghero and its wines

Alghero, in the north-western part of the Sardinia, is one of the most important wine districts on the island. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, its limestone soils and the influence of the sea breezes, the area produces fresh, savoury whites, structured, intense reds and elegant sparkling wines.

The the Alghero DOC appellation protects the wine production of the area and takes in several indigenous and international varieties, including Vermentino, Torbato, Cannonau, Cagnulari and Cabernet Sauvignon. The historic presence of Catalan culture has left its mark on viticulture too, with Torbato, a rare grape variety distinctive to the area.

What is the Alghero wine district?

The wine district of Alghero DOC develops around the town of Alghero, along the coast and in the hilly inland of the province of Sassari. The mild, breezy climate, with warm summers and moderate winters, favours the production of balanced, aromatic, long-lived wines.

The main appellations and typical grape varieties include:

• Alghero DOC → An appellation covering whites, reds, rosés and sparkling wines.
• Vermentino di Sardegna DOC → A fresh, mineral white, typical of the area.
• Torbato di Alghero → A historic grape variety of the area, with great savouriness and longevity.
• Cannonau di Sardegna DOC → The most celebrated Sardinian red, here with spicy, sea-borne notes.
• Cagnulari → A native grape variety of north-western Sardinia, spicy and fruity.

Characteristics of Alghero Wines

Colour

• Whites: Straw yellow with golden highlights in the Torbato and Vermentino.
• Reds: Deep ruby red, with garnet tones in the aged wines.
• Sparkling wines: Bright yellow with a fine, persistent perlage.

Aromas

• Fruity: Citrus, peach and apple in the whites; cherry and blackberry in the reds.
• Floral: White flowers in the Vermentino; violet in the Cannonau and Cagnulari.
• Spicy and Mineral: Iodine and Mediterranean scrubland notes in the whites; black pepper and liquorice in the reds.

Palate

• Fresh and Savoury: In the whites, with balanced acidity and a mineral finish.
• Structured and Spicy: In the reds, with enveloping tannins and great depth.
• Elegant and Complex: In the Torbato wines and the reds aged in wood.

Typical Grape Varieties of Alghero

White Grape Varieties

• Vermentino: The most widely grown white grape variety in Sardinia, fresh and mineral.
• Torbato: Exclusive to Alghero, aromatic and savoury, perfect for still and sparkling wines.
• Chardonnay: Used for international blends and sparkling wines.

Black Grape Varieties

• Cannonau: Structured and spicy, with Mediterranean notes.
• Cagnulari: Indigenous to north-western Sardinia, fruity and tannic.
• Cabernet Sauvignon e Merlot: Found in the international blends of the area.

Why Choose a Wine from Alghero?

A wine from Alghero is an authentic expression of its land, with a perfect balance between sea-borne freshness and structure. Perfect for pairing with shellfish, fish dishes, red meat and aged cheeses, the wines of the area offer great variety and quality.