Monica is one of Sardinia's quieter treasures, and Audarya gives it an inviting introduction. Produced by the Pala family in the island's south, this red is all about fragrant berries, lively acidity and a pleasantly earthy edge: plenty of personality in a very approachable glass.
- Aromas: Cherries and wild raspberries, followed by sweet spice, earthy notes and a light smoky impression as the wine opens.
- Palate: Bright acidity lifts the red fruit, while moderate tannins give a satisfying grip without making the wine feel heavy or demanding.
- Style: Dry and medium-bodied, with a fresher, more savoury profile than a plush, heavily oaked red.
- Winemaking: Hand-selected Monica grapes receive a short cold maceration before controlled fermentation in steel. Maturation on fine lees builds texture while preserving the grape's freshness and lively, aromatic fruit.
- Cellaring: Ready to drink now. Store in a cool and dark location.
- Food Pairing: Duck pancakes, herb-roasted chicken, pork ribs or mushroom pasta; its acidity also works nicely with tomato-based sauces.
Fancy trying something beyond the usual red grapes? Monica rewards curiosity without asking you to work hard. Bring it to a relaxed dinner, put a few dishes in the middle, and enjoy a Sardinian discovery that is easy to get along with. Serve slightly cool in a generous glass, letting the fruit and savoury detail unfold with the meal.
Audarya
Sardinia’s distinctive grapes take centre stage at Audarya, a family winery located up in the hills north of the capital city of Cagliari. The Pala family has cultivated vines here for generations, and siblings Salvatore and Nicoletta bring fresh energy to that inheritance. Their approach combines a close connection to the island’s wine traditions with a modern eye for precision, allowing each variety to express its own character. Vermentino, Nuragus and Malvasia lead the whites, while Cannonau (aka Grenache), Monica and Bovale (aka Graciano) reveal the diversity of Sardinian reds.
This is a collection that rewards curiosity. Vermentino offers a refreshing introduction, while the more distinctive Nuragus and Malvasia invite wine lovers to venture beyond familiar names. Cannonau brings the generosity associated with Grenache, Monica offers a lighter expression, and Bovale provides the depth behind flagship red Nuracada. Rather than relying on international varieties, Audarya builds its identity around Sardinia itself: bright Mediterranean flavours, native grapes and a family’s continuing relationship with the land. These are wines with an island story and plenty of appeal at the table.
