Panevino Storm Venti Venti

Panevino is the Sardinian project of Gianfranco Manca, a master baker who turned his understanding of wild yeast and fermentation to wine. The estate works organically and makes natural wines with minimal intervention. Storm Venti Venti is Cannonau, the Sardinian name for Grenache, grown in the island's warm, sunny, wind-swept Mediterranean climate. The grapes ferment with their own native yeasts and the wine is held only in stainless steel for around a month, with no oak. Steel is neutral and airtight, so it keeps the wine fresh and fruit-driven and lets the variety and the wild fermentation speak directly. Despite a ripe 15.5 percent alcohol, the style is deliberately light and lively. Expect a bright red colour and a vivid nose of red berries, strawberry and cherry with garrigue herbs and a peppery, earthy lift. The palate is juicy and fresh, with gentle tannins, lively acidity and a clean finish. This is an honest, gulpable red rather than a structured one. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 16 degrees, which suits its energy. Good with rustic, friendly food.