The 2004 Carignano del Sulcis Superiore Arruga flows onto the palate in stunning style, as layers of dark fruit, flowers, minerals, licorice and spices blossom. This generous, full-bodied red possesses impressive length and tons of balance. The wine remains quite primary and is likely to develop additional complexity in bottle. It is a wonderful effort. The Arruga is fermented in cement tanks and aged in French oak barrels for 12 months. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2018. These are the first wines I have tasted from Sardus Pater, a cooperative located on the Sant’Antioco islands, just off the southwest coast of Sardinia. The winery was founded in 1949 and today counts over 300 members. Consulting oenologist Riccado Cotarella oversees winemaking. His approach is often very much felt in the wines, yet I often get a sense that with a lighter touch in the cellar and a more transparent expression of variety and terroir these wines might very well reach a higher level. The raw materials certainly seem to be available, as the estate’s top reds are made from ancient, pre-phylloxera vineyards. This a beautiful set of wines from an emerging property readers should keep an eye on. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

Dark and rich, with assertive tannins framing the sun-dried wild berry and plum skin notes. Hints of wild herb, almond skin and leather linger on the grippy finish. Needs food to tame the tannins. Drink now. 1,200 cases made, 375 cases imported.??–NW??Region: Italy / South / Carignano del Sulcis Select to Add