A cluster of villages in a kidney-shaped region on Sardinia make up the first Blue Zone ever identified. In 2004, a research team set off to investigate a rare genetic quirk carried by its inhabitants. The M26 marker is linked to exceptional longevity, and due to geographic isolation, the genes of the residents in this area of Sardinia have remained mostly undiluted. The result: nearly 10 times more centenarians per capita than the U.S. But even more importantly, residents of this area are also culturally isolated, and they have kept to a very traditional, healthy lifestyle. Sardinians still hunt, fish and harvest the food they eat. They remain close with friends and family throughout their lives. They laugh and drink wine together.
The Pala family began their adventure with wine in 1950 amongst the rolling, vine-covered hills of Serdiana, an idyllic village located in southern Sardinia. With mild winters and warm, dry summers, this part of Italy's second largest island is ideal for grape growing, with the traditional varietals finding a special home here. Under the guidance of Mario Pala as of 1995, the winery continues to be family-owned.
The nose is cool & floral with aromas of crushed rock, fresh clay, rose petals & cherries. Plummy fruit & herbs lead to hints of leather, forest floor & spice. Cherries star on the palate, alongside and emergent earthiness, while lively acidity lifts a latent heat. Medium-to-full-bodied with lovely, fine & dusty tannins that are drenched in mild spice & a twinge of orange peel. Silky, balanced & delicious.
