Iselis Rosso Monica di Sardegna Superiore DOC - Argiolas

The Iselis rosso Monica di Sadegna Superiore DOC from Argiolas is ruby red in the glass. On the nose, the red Iselis develops an intense bouquet, from which the fruity aromas of black cherries and plums stand out, as well as spicy hints of cinnamon and vanilla. Harmonious and velvety, with very soft tannins, fruity and with fine spice in perfect balance with the acidity typical of the variety. The finish is very long and pleasant.

Vinification of the Iselis rosso Monica di Sardegna Superiore from Argiolas

The grapes for this wine are grown in a small vineyard, Iselis, between olive trees, a salty inland lake and a small romantic country church, near Serdiana, in the hinterland of the Gulf of Cagliari in the south of the island.

The Iselis rosso is made from the autochthonous Monica grape variety, which is typical of the region around Cagliari. This grape variety challenges the winemaker, it is like a raw gemstone: you have to understand it and know which facets best express its personality. This is how this Monica di Sardegna becomes a discovery, complex, structured, enriched by the addition of very little Carignano and Bovale sardo. After manual harvesting, the grapes macerate for 10 to 12 days at a controlled temperature of 28-30°. Malolactic fermentation takes place in glazed concrete tanks for 10 to 15 days. Then the 12-month maturation in French barriques begins, followed by a final 6-month resting period in the bottle.

A new project of the Argiolas family, a place where dreams and hopes can unfold, that is the "Progetto Iselis". Two wines are produced in a specially selected location, a white and a red from autochthonous Sardinian grape varieties. The very old Nasco grape variety, which dates back to the time of the ancient seafaring Phoenicians, was selected for the white wine, while the Monica grape variety was chosen for the red. A poet friend of the family designed the labels for the bottles. The proceeds are used to support humanitarian projects where help is needed most.

Dining recommendations for the Iselis Monica di Sardegna Superiore from Argiolas

This fruity, complex Sardinian red wine is an excellent accompaniment to tasty preparations and dishes, such as traditional pasta dishes with Sardinian sauces, fish soups, grilled tuna fillet and red meat, braised lamb and medium-aged sheep's milk cheeses.

Awards for the Iselis Monica di Sardegna Superiore from Argiolas

• Duemilavini: 4 grapes for 2015
• Veronelli: 92 points for 2015
• Vitae: 3 vines for 2015
• Gambero Rosso: 2 glasses for 2013 and 2014
• James Suckling: 93 points for 2014; 91 points for 2013
• Wine Advocate Robert M. Parker: 87 points for 2013
• Vinous: 91 points for 2013
• Wine Enthusiast: 90 points for 2013
• Gambero Rosso: 2 glasses for 2010 Iselis rosso IGT
• I Vini di Veronelli: 3 stars for 2010 Iselis rosso IGT
• Sommelier Wine Awards: Bronze medal for 2009 Iselis Rosso IGT

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