Guided tour of History and Heritage
Taste of Sardinia's Finest Wines
Panoramic Vineyard in Gallura
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Capichera Vineyards & Winery
Discover Capichera’s renowned vineyards, iconic wines, and breathtaking scenery in the heart of Sardinia.
Nestled in the heart of Gallura, just a short drive from the pristine beaches of Costa Smeralda, lies Capichera Vineyards — a testament to Sardinia's rich winemaking heritage. On a serene day in late September, we embarked on a journey to this renowned estate, eager to immerse ourselves in its storied vineyards and exceptional wines.
A Scenic Tour Through the Vineyards
From the moment we arrived, Capichera’s vineyards were an impressive sight: vast, gently sloping hills blanketed with carefully cultivated vines. We were welcomed by a friendly team and soon found ourselves riding in a golf cart through rows of Vermentino and Carignano grapes, which thrive in Gallura's granite-rich soil and warm climate. Our guide shared the story of Capichera’s founding in the late 1970s by the Ragnedda family, who set out to establish Sardinia’s place on the world wine map. Capichera was one of the first to vinify Vermentino in purity, a decision that reshaped perceptions of the grape and made the winery a pioneer in Sardinian winemaking.
Capichera has garnered a reputation for producing some of the island’s finest wines, with a focus on quality, character, and a respect for tradition that shines through in every bottle. They’ve taken Vermentino, a grape known mostly for fresh, light wines, and elevated it to a structured, complex wine that holds its own alongside more traditional varieties. By employing careful vinification techniques and aging some wines in oak, Capichera creates Vermentino wines with surprising depth and elegance.
Alongside Vermentino, Capichera cultivates Carignano, a lesser-known grape variety that produces deep, bold reds with notes of dark berries and Mediterranean herbs. This combination of grapes reflects Capichera’s dedication to celebrating Sardinia’s unique climate and landscape, producing wines that are truly an expression of place.
The Tasting Experience
Our tour culminated at a secluded part of the vineyard, where tables were set up under the open sky, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The tasting experience here is thoughtfully curated, giving visitors a chance to sample a range of Capichera wines, paired with small bites designed to enhance each wine's distinct flavors. We tried a selection, from their signature Vermentino to the powerful and balanced reds, each one accompanied by Sardinian cheeses, cured meats, and homemade bread.
The standout for us was the rosé—a delicate wine with a floral aroma and refreshing acidity. We couldn’t resist buying a bottle to bring home as a reminder of the day. While enjoying our tasting, we had the opportunity to chat with Anna, one of the winery’s managers, who shared insights into the winemaking process and Capichera’s philosophy. She explained that the winery focuses on respecting Sardinia’s unique terroir, allowing the soil and climate to guide the wines, rather than over-manipulating the process.
Practical Tips for Visiting Capichera
When to Visit: The vineyard is especially beautiful from late spring through early autumn. September, when we visited, was ideal; the harvest season brings an added energy to the winery, and the late summer weather is perfect for exploring.Booking a Tour: To ensure a personalized experience, it’s best to book your tour in advance. Capichera offers a variety of tours, from a brief tasting to more extensive experiences, each tailored to different levels of interest and expertise in wine.
What to Wear: The tour involves walking and standing in outdoor areas, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat or sunglasses for protection from the sun.
Getting There: Capichera is a short drive from Costa Smeralda and can be easily reached by car. Many visitors pair a visit to the vineyard with a day exploring nearby attractions in Gallura.
Purchasing Wines: Capichera’s wines can be purchased on-site, and they ship internationally. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations—they’re passionate and knowledgeable, and you’ll find wines here that you won’t easily come across elsewhere.
Why Capichera is worth a visit
Capichera is a place where Sardinian culture, history, and nature intertwine. For anyone passionate about wine or simply curious about Sardinia’s traditions, a visit here is an immersive experience that brings you closer to the island and its unique character. Capichera’s commitment to quality and authenticity, combined with the breathtaking setting, make it a destination we’d wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting Sardinia.
As we left Capichera, bottle in hand and memories of the day fresh in our minds, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this piece of Sardinian heritage.
