RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

History: Nieddera is a red grape variety grown in Sardinia and primarily used in the production of IGT Valle del Tirso wines, where it contributes depth, character, and authenticity to regional blends and varietals mostly in the province of Oristano but also in neighboring Cagliari and Nuoro.

Its origins are uncertain, and there is no precise date of its arrival or domestication. Thought by many to be related to Carignano, DNA testing at the Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection (CNR-IPSP), the Universities of Milan and Sassari and geneticist Dr. Jose Vouillamoz have all determined that Nieddera is distinct.

Officially registered in the National Catalogue of Vine Varieties since 1971, the Nieddera grape - in Sardinian, "Nieddu" means black - produces deep ruby ​​red wines with a bouquet characterized by herbaceous and spicy notes of pink pepper. Resistant to drought, wind, and botrytis, though sensitive to powdery mildew, it has the remarkable body and structure typical of wines suitable for aging. The aromatic notes are excellent, releasing them on the palate, where the robustness is complemented by an acidity that is almost always present when expertly vinified.

Taking advantage of its high anthocyanin content Nieddera was used as a blending grape until recently when it has been wisely rediscovered and enhanced especially by small local wineries that operate with an artisanal approach.

From an oenological point of view, Nieddera stands out for its good chromatic intensity, fresh and floral aromas, and a light but well-defined structure. The musts have a medium sugar content, with lively acidity and a low pH, making them suitable for both red and rosé vinification. It is also interesting for refermented vinifications, in a dry sparkling style, which enhance its aromatics and drinkability.

Sources: (https://www.assovini.it/italia/sardegna/item/884-nieddera) ; (https://www.bevisardo.it/vitigni-sardi/il-vitigno-nieddera/?srsltid=AYCX9vJ7cebEpt94uyf2bAJE-YpwJ--Kdv6iutH5r87qOqN4DqKKv2iv) & (https://www.quattrocalici.it/)

VIVC: http://www.vivc.de/index.php?r=passport%2Fview&id=8545

Parentage: Unknown

Tasting notes:

Red Wines: Feature a ruby-red color (sometimes light), aromas of dark berries, cherry, plum, licorice, and distinct coastal or salty/ferrous nuances. The palate is lean, fresh, and savory.                                                                         Rosé Wines: Celebrated as some of Italy's most original rosés, showing a bright dark-pink or coral color with aromas of raspberry, wild cherry, and wild rose, paired with high acidity and a marine-inflected finish with subtle tannins.  Ideal serving temperature is 8 °C to 10 °C

      Sources: (https://www.quattrocalici.it/); (https://vinicontini.com/vini/nieddera-rose/)

Food Pairings: Local seafood (such as lobster tagliolini or fish soup), cured meats, fresh cheeses, and traditional Sardinian dishes.  Source: (https://vinicontini.com/vini/nieddera-rose/)

Production areas: IGT Valle del Tirso, IGT Isola dei Nuraghi

Producers: (https://www.autoctovino.com/grape/nieddera/)

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