The wine village of Ogliastra
On the slopes of the mountains of Ogliastra, in central-eastern Sardinia, the village of Jerzu is known as the "city of wine": here is produced one of the most renowned versions of Cannonau, the great red wine of Sardinia. The village, built on a ridge at about 400 metres, is surrounded by vineyards that climb the terraced slopes, and dominated by the "tacchi", the spectacular limestone towers and cliffs that rise above the valleys of Ogliastra, such as the Perda Liana and the Tacchi d'Ogliastra.
Cannonau, probably related to the Spanish Garnacha and the French Grenache, is the most widespread grape in Sardinia; it produces intense, warm, full-bodied wines, with aromas of ripe red fruit, spices and Mediterranean herbs, rich in polyphenols. According to some studies it may have been grown in Sardinia since nuragic times. The Ogliastra and the Barbagia are among the "Blue Zones" of the world, areas with an exceptional number of centenarians, and some researchers associate the longevity of the inhabitants also with the moderate consumption of Cannonau, rich in antioxidants. In Jerzu the Antichi Poderi di Jerzu cooperative winery and other producers offer tastings, and every August the village hosts the Sagra del Vino, with tastings and festivities.
Tip: combine the visit with the "tacchi" of Ogliastra and the Trenino Verde railway; try Cannonau with roast suckling pig and pecorino.
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