Agricola Punica, Isola del Nuraghi IGT (Sardinia, Italy) 2015

 Agricola Punica is a collaboration between Tenuta San Guido, the Bolgheri producer responsible for Sassicaia, and Sardinia’s Cantina di Santadi.  The late Giacomo Tachis, who was a genius at sensing the utility of the so-called Bordeaux varieties in selected Italian locales, suggested the blend of Carignano, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot for their wine to be called “Barrua.”  It turned out to be an outstanding recommendation.  Despite the stated 15 percent alcohol, the 2015 Barrua does not come across as ripe or overdone.  Quite the contrary.  Lush fruitiness gives way to savory and herbal elements amplified by a lively freshness in the finish.  The tannins are present for support, but they are refined and supple, not aggressive.  Yum!