Showing the marks of a warm vintage, the 2012 Korem is an intricate blend of Bovale Sardo, Carignano and Cannonau. These are three of the most prominent red grapes used in Sardinia. The wine shows a darkly concentrated appearance with brooding intensity and opulent thickness. Black cherry, exotic spice and moist chewing tobacco lift heavily from the bouquet. Korem shows soft tannins and a thickly layered texture. This is a great winter wine to pair with a succulent cut of red meat.

Made with 55% Bovale, 35% Carignano and 10% Cannonau, the 2011 Korem (an IGT Isola dei Nuraghi wine) is dark and penetrating from the start with exotic tones of pressed fruit, cardamom, clove and dried herb. This vintage is especially fruit-forward with sun drenched tones of black fruit and prune. It sees 12 months of new oak. Korem should be consumed over the next four or five years.

The 2008 Isola dei Nuraghi Korem dazzles from start to finish. The fruit shows marvelous freshness and vitality, while hints roasted coffee beans, mocha and licorice add further dimensions of complexity. A blast of tar, jammy black fruit and licorice informs the opulent finish. Korem is 60% Bovale Sardo, 20% Carignano and 20% Cannonau. It spent 12 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018. A renewed focus in indigenous grapes and a more refined approach to winemaking are some of the developments that are in the air at Argiolas. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

The 2007 Isola dei Nuraghi Korem is an exceptionally beautiful Sardinian red made principally from Bovale Sardo with 20% Carignano and 20% Cannonau. Sweet candied cherries, flowers and spices emerge from this rich, textured wine. With time in the glass the inner perfume emerges, adding further layers of complexity. Scents of chocolate, mocha and spices linger on the inviting finish. This is another beautiful, impeccable wine from Argiolas. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Argiolas is a great starting point for readers who want to discover the breadth of Sardinian wine. From top to bottom this is an impressive line-up that showcases the unique voices of the island’s indigenous grapes. Even better, most of the wines remain exceptional values. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620