Nieddera is a little known variety that can be considered a close relation to the powerful and age-worthy Cannonau, which is the Sardinian/Italian name for Grenache. Nieddera was first cultivated on the island by the Spanish who settled here many centuries ago.

Nieddera has some of Cannonau’s power, but its fruit is a little more expressive and the wine shows more youthful finesse. Contini's vineyards are nestled between the Mediterranean and a sprawling wildlife preserve. The winemakers use no pesticides in the vineyards and the wine sees only a minute amount of sulfites prior to bottling.

Dense black cherry and plum tones intermingle with dried orange peel, and a dusting of Oaxaca Chocolate. A hint of Mediterranean sea coast—think sun-baked pebble beach encrusted with a fine layer of salt—lingers on its elegant nose. This Nieddera offers baked plum, black cherry and smoked meat flavors. Full tannins and linear acidity round out its long finish. With complexity and elegance to spare it is easily one of the best reds we have in the store for under twenty-dollars. Serve with grilled meats, hearty chicken stews garnished with black olives, or veined cheeses.

—Donald