Raica

Olbia (SS) - SARDINIA

Cinzia Pellazza and Eugenio Bocchino had always been enchanted by Sardinia’s landscape and dreamed of setting up a winery there. So, in 2016 they bought seven hectares of land, which already included a couple of hectares of almost 50-year old Vermentino vines and Raìca was born.

Raìca from the Gallurese dialect, refers to the wooden sticks made of Erica (briar wood) that are used to support bush vines in this north-eastern corner of Sardinia. The vineyard is arid, sunny and highly-influenced by the prevailing wind. It is farmed in accordance with organic and biodynamic practices.

To the existing Vermentino vines Cinizia and Eugenio have added other local varieties such as, Pascale di Cagliari, Nuragus and Semidano. Their goal has been to create a ‘laboratory’ of sustainable viticulture, focusing on local traditions and native grapes varieties.

Eugenio points out that, like in the Langhe, their vineyards in Sardinia experience significant shifts in temperature throughout the day, making the area an even more compelling place to make wine. Human intervention is reduced to a minimum in the cellar and all wines are fermented with native yeasts, without temperature control. No fining and no filtration are allowed. Minimum amounts of sulphur are added if needed.

Raìca wines are a great expression of place. Their ‘minerality’ reflects the stony soil in which the vines grow.  The surrounding olive trees, myrtle bushes and woodlands give the wines a strong Mediterranean character.