Barbagia and its wines

Barbagia, in the heart of Sardinia, is one of the most authentic and fascinating regions of the island. Surrounded by the Gennargentu mountains, this area is characterised by a rugged, unspoilt landscape, where tradition and nature come together in a unique combination. As well as its thousand-year history and its cultural traditions, Barbagia is famous for the production of high-quality wines, thanks to its Mediterranean climate with wide temperature swings and to its limestone and granite soils.

---

What is the Barbagia?

**Barbagia** is a historic region of Sardinia, in the provinces of Nuoro and Ogliastra, taking in the mountainous areas of the Gennargentu. Known for its heroic viticulture, Barbagia offers a unique terroir, marked by poor soils and a microclimate that favours the production of intense wines with a bold character. Villages such as Oliena, Mamoiada and Orgosolo are the beating heart of the culture and the winemaking tradition of Barbagia.

Characteristics of the Wines of the Barbagia

1. Structure and Intensity: Full-bodied red wines, with robust tannins and great aromatic depth.
2. Freshness and Aromatics: The whites show floral and fruity notes, with a pleasant acidity.
3. Expression of the Land: Every wine reflects the authenticity and richness of the Barbagia terroir.

---

Places of Interest in the Barbagia

1. Oliena

Famous for producing high-quality Cannonau and for the enchanting landscapes of the Supramonte.

2. Mamoiada

Another key centre of viticulture, known for its robust Cannonau and for popular traditions such as the Mamuthones masks.

3. Orgosolo

Famous for its murals and its shepherding culture, it offers a unique combination of art and wine traditions.

---

Characteristics of the Wines of the Barbagia

Colour

• Reds: Intense ruby red with garnet reflections in the aged wines.
• Whites: Straw yellow with greenish highlights.

Aromas

• Fruity: Notes of ripe red fruits, plum and blackberry in the reds; citrus and peach in the whites.
• Spicy: Hints of black pepper, liquorice and Mediterranean herbs in the reds.
• Floral: Hints of white flowers and broom in the whites.

Palate

• Structured and Lingering: The reds offer velvety tannins and a long, harmonious finish.
• Fresh and Mineral: The whites stand out for their lively acidity and salinity.

---

Typical Grape Varieties of Barbagia

Black Grape Varieties

• Cannonau: The emblematic grape variety of Sardinia, known for its robustness and longevity.
• Carignano: Intense and spicy, used in blends to add complexity.

White Grape Varieties

• Vermentino: Fresh and savoury, with citrus and floral notes.
• Moscato: Aromatic and sweet, used for passito and sparkling wines.

---

Why Choose a Wine from the Barbagia?

A wine from the Barbagia is a journey into the most authentic heart of Sardinia. Ideal for accompanying robust dishes such as roast suckling pig, aged cheeses and local cured meats, Barbagia wines are a genuine expression of tradition and terroir.