Fradiles Mandrolisai '22

Fradiles in Sardinian means “cousins,” and while there are 18 of them in the family to help when needed, four are mainly in charge of the vineyards and cellar, including Paolo Savoldo and Antonio Marras. They are in Mandrolisai, a region of Sardinia known historically for its expressive wines, and where vineyards have been integral to the landscape for centuries. Paolo manages 25 acres of vineyards, 15 of which are jointly family owned and that surround the winery, including vines planted a century ago. They work with indigenous varieties, including Bovale Sardo (Muristellu), Cannonau (Grenahce), and Monica. The vines are grown at altitudes ranging from 500 to 700 meters above sea level, in the hilly area of Atzara, west of the Gennargentu mountains. The soils are characterized by decayed granite and sand.
 
The 2022 bottling of “Fradiles Mandrolisai” Rosso is a blend of Bovale Sardo (Muristellu), Cannonau (Grenahce), and Monica, and the vines are around 30 years in age. Fermentation took place at controlled temperature, with 8–10 days of skin maceration in stainless steel. The wine was matured in 500-liter and 700-liter wooden barrels for about six months.
 
On the nose, the wine shows notes of wild berries, rhubarb, anise, and forest floor, along with floral aromas of violet and rose. With its bright acidity and supple tannins, this is a great wine to serve alongside a lamb or sausage ragù with fennel and pecorino cheese.