Created by the same folks behind Tuscany's legendary Sassicaia, this is an all-Sardinian blend of 85% Carignano, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The 2013 Barrua is a beautifully balanced and seamless expression with dark fruit aromas that flow effortlessly from the bouquet. Those tones of blackberry, prune and dried fig segue to spice, tar, licorice and black olive. This vintage really works in terms of the intensity and the precision of the bouquet. The tannins are integrated, and the wine is layered and long lasting. Some 125,000 bottles were produced.

The 2012 Barrua is similar to the hot vintage that proceeds it. This so-called "Sardinian Sassicaia" is made by the same people who brought us the legendary Tuscan red wine. Barrua is a blend of Carignano, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that sees some 18 months of oak aging. This edition shows a soft and slightly jammy style with dark blackberry preserves, dried cherry, black olive and generous secondary aromas of oak spice and tobacco. Barrua always shows impeccable balance. Considering the warm vintage conditions, this edition offers that same sense of overall harmony. The wine is engineered for either near or long term drinking. It should hold for a decade.

The IGT Isola dei Nuraghi 2011 Barrua is a hearty blend of 85% Carignano, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot that is aged up to 18 months in oak. The wine boasts a compelling international signature that borrows from the great wines of Bolgheri and Bordeaux. The fruit reaches perfect maturity with luscious ripeness and deep aromatic intensity. At the back are pretty spice, tobacco and dark chocolate tones that build the wine's personality. Barrua will hold five years or more.