Cannonau Le Anfore di Elena Casadei 2023

The Cannonau Le Anfore by Elena Casadei is a deep sip of the Mediterranean—a multifaceted liquid that combines depth with generous aromatic expression. A relatively young venture, founded in 2000, the Olianas winery bottles territorial expressions that tell the story of a lesser-known yet equally worthy area of Sardinia: the Sarcidano. The winery, born from the fruitful collaboration between Tuscan producer Stefano Casadei and Artemio Olianas, has chosen to focus on local grape varieties. In the vineyards, you’ll find Cannonau, Bovale, and Carignano for red grapes, while Vermentino and Nasco—particularly suited for the production of passito wines—are cultivated among the white varieties. The warm, dry climate results in wines rich in extract and substance, yet still marked by drinkability and originality of profile.

The Cannonau Le Anfore wine is a pure expression of the grape of the same name, produced from vines rooted in clay-sandy soils of calcareous and basaltic origin. Biodynamic principles are followed in the vineyard, excluding the use of chemical or synthetic substances and preserving the vitality of both soil and fruit, as well as the area’s rich biodiversity. In the cellar, the process continues with spontaneous alcoholic fermentation and about 40 days of maceration on the skins. The wine is then aged for at least 6 months in terracotta amphorae before bottling.

The Cannonau Casadei appears in the glass with an intense ruby color edged with violet reflections. The nose is broad and evocative, with clear notes of Mediterranean scrub, juniper, myrtle, and licorice. On the palate, it reveals a perfectly achieved balance of power, complexity, and a savory, lingering finish that invites another sip. A thoroughbred.