The Carignano del Sulcis DOC is one of the most authentic and unique tasting experiences you’ll find on the island. A historic red wine, among the most famous in Sardinia.
What many people don’t know is that Carignano vines have immense winemaking potential. The island’s environmental and climatic factors make all the difference!
They are the reason for the vineyards’ uniqueness and are decisive for the success of the production and for making it so distinctive: the sandy soils, in fact, provide natural protection against phylloxera, one of the most dangerous pests for grapevine cultivation. This allows the vines to grow ungrafted, without rootstock, preserving the genetic purity and authenticity of the grape variety. The salty sea breeze coming from the sea, which at certain times blows constantly and fiercely, is a factor that influences vine cultivation in the Sulcis area, as the bush-trained method is the only one suitable due to the vines’ small size and proximity to the ground. Production, though not excessive in quantity compared to other varieties, consistently offers high quality and alcohol content.
But what are the origins of this remarkable wine? Given the widespread presence of the variety in various areas of the Western Mediterranean, it is likely that the Phoenicians or the Carthaginians introduced Carignano to Sardinia.
Equally credible is the theory that the grape variety was imported from the Iberian Peninsula as early as the beginning of Spanish rule over the island. Confirmation of this comes directly from popular culture: the Carignano grape is called “Axina de Spagna,” meaning “Grape of Spain.”
It is therefore certain that the production of Carignano del Sulcis is an ancient tradition with strong identity-defining characteristics, handed down through many generations.
It represents a mark of excellence and is a resource of inestimable value for the region.
