My very best daydreams often include a beautiful bottle of wine and balmy ocean breezes. Apparently, I've been dreaming of Sardinia. The second largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia has an ancient & rich wine culture and Sella & Mosca is the island's foremost producer.
Giovanni Pinna, Chief Winemaker, Sella & Mosca
Founded in 1899, Sella & Mosca's I Piani estate is the second largest contiguous vineyard in Italy and one of the largest wineries in Europe - it is a 1,600-acre property with more than 1,200 acres of vines. From vibrant whites to nuanced reds, Sella & Mosca has a wine for every mood and meal. Sella & Mosca is a must-sip in an exploration of Sardinian wines - their portfolio includes indigenous varietals like Torbato and international favorites like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Sella & Mosca La Cala Vermentino di Sardegna DOC 2015 ($13.99)
Sardinian sunshine in a glass, La Cala is an energetic and elegant expression of Vermentino. Crisp, fresh, and dry; its citrus and peach flavors are balanced by a hint of salinity that reflect the vineyard's proximity to the sea. An absolutely perfect match with seafood, this refreshing white wine is a delightful detour from ubiquitous Pinot Grigio.
Sella & Mosca Terre Bianche Torbato di Alghero DOC 2014 ($20.99)
Want to sip something new? Give Torbato a swirl. Indigenous to Sardinia, this flavorful grape produces a white wine with plenty of personality. A difficult grape to grow, Torbato is delightfully easy to drink. Zippy acidity and flavors of citrus with a hint of honey and a touch of vanilla (from a few months in oak) make this wine come alive with texture and flavor. Another great match with seafood - especially crudo and ceviche.
Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva DOC 2012 ($16.99)
An approachable red wine that packs plenty of flavor, this Cannonau lures you in with sultry aromas of wild berries and a touch of spice. Flavors of plummy fruit, earth, herbs, and spice are beautifully balanced. Pair with pasta & meat sauce or mushroom based dishes.
Sella & Mosca Tanca Farrá Alghero DOC 2011($26.99)
Tanca Farrá displays the allure that results from combining the familiar (Cabernet Sauvignon) with the exotic (Cannonau). Tanca Farrá means "Iron Earth" in the Sardinian dialect and refers to the high iron content of the soil in this portion of the estate. That steely minerality imparts the wine with structure and complexity. Full-bodied with layers of dark fruit, graphite, and herbs; pair this beauty with hearty meats and aged cheeses.
Sella & Mosca Marchese di Villamarina Alghero DOC 2010 ($64.99)
An elegant reminder of Cabernet Sauvignon's ability to reflect the unique qualities of the terroir where it is grown, Marchese di Villamarina displays the varietal's classic flavors along with some Sardinian finesse. Intense but not overwhelming, it balances rich flavors of blackcurrant, black cherry, with touches of vanilla and earth. A great match with steak and game.
If you're planning a trip to Sardinia, contact Sella & Mosca to request a visit.