Vikevike Ghirada Fittiloghe 2021

Vikevike is the natural wine project of Simone Sedilesu, working in the rugged Barbagia hills of central Sardinia. Ghirada Fittiloghe is made from Cannonau, the local name for Grenache, which thrives in the island's hot, dry climate. The vineyards sit at altitude on granite soils, where the elevation brings cooler nights and a wide day to night temperature range that keeps acidity and aromatic freshness in an otherwise warm setting. Farming is organic and the wine is made naturally, with wild yeast and no additions. It is fermented and aged for eighteen months in stainless steel rather than oak, which preserves the pure, ripe fruit and the herbal, savoury character of the site. The colour is deep red. The nose is ripe and warming, with red berries and plum lifted by black pepper and the dried Mediterranean herbs known locally as macchia. The palate is full and generous, with ripe fruit, soft tannin, a savoury, earthy depth and a note of liquorice. At 14.5 percent it is rich but balanced by fresh acidity. Serve at around 17 degrees. It suits grilled and roast meats.