Saraja is a large winery, producing a wide range in most of Sardinia’s wine producing regions, but they do it with both care and attention to details. This Cannonau comes from the eastern shore, the region called Ogliastra after the numerous olive groves found there. Vineyards are on the shoulders of the wild and rocky mount Gennergentu, exposed to Mediterranean winds. Like other Cannonau coming from the island more recently, this one gives more of the fresh red aromas and spices that remind us how closely related this grape is to Spanish Grenache. Notes show of dry, sandy soil, ripe strawberries, cherry blossom and orange peel. The soft shouldered bottle shape is a clue that the palate will be lithe and lush with silky tannins and punchy flavors of strawberry, citrus peel, rosemary and organic earth, before a mouthwatering finish of orange comes begging for another bite of food. Serve with lamb skewers, pasta dishes with meatballs or falafel, and other hearty-but-easy meals.