'Maluentu' Contini 2018

The 'Maluentu' from the Sardinian Contini winery is a soft, fruity red wine that is the result of an original encounter between the indigenous Nieddera grape variety and the international Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. This wine thus demonstrates the affinity between the local grapes and the most renowned French black grape varieties, bringing an international touch to the blend. Regarding the appellation 'Maluentu', the term comes from the Sardinian language and means 'bad wind'.

Contini 'Maluentu' comes from a peculiar blend of Nieddera, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, varieties grown in the Tirso River Valley, within the Sinis Peninsula, a few metres above sea level. Here the vines benefit from the typically Mediterranean and breezy climate, as well as the sandy and slightly clayey matrix of the soils. In the cellar, the grapes first undergo destemming, followed by alcoholic fermentation with 5-6 days of maceration on the skins in stainless steel tanks. Also in stainless steel, the wine rests for a few months before bottling, with the final marketing taking place not before an adequate period in the bottle.

To the eye, Contini's 'Maluentu' reveals a clear ruby red colour with purple reflections. On the nose, sensations of wild berries and Mediterranean scrub alternate with fine hints of myrtle and balsamic hints. The taste is rich and enveloping, with the soft tannic texture accompanying the harmonious progression that rests on a balanced fresh, savoury and slightly iodine finish. To enhance the characteristics of 'Maluentu' we recommend pairing it with delicious cheese boards and various cured meats, although it is also exceptional with grilled meat, especially pork or lamb.