Cardu: Organic Thistle Honey

Sardinian Thistle Honey is a rare and distinctive monofloral honey, gathered by bees from the nectar of wild thistle blossoms. These hardy plants thrive across Sardinia’s untouched landscapes, from the coastal plains up to mountain pastures at 1,300 meters.

Our thistle honey is primarily produced in Sardinia and Sicily, with smaller harvests in Calabria. After extraction, it naturally crystallizes within a few months. In its crystallized form, thistle honey ranges in color from light to dark beige, often showing yellowish or orange tones.

Floral and fruity aromas, with a characteristic bitter and herbal finish. The flavor is rich and persistent, with subtle acidity and a lingering complexity.

Pairing:

Perfect with aged cheeses (Pecorino, Parmigiano), herbal teas, roasted meats, and rye bread. It also enhances yogurt, pastries, and artisanal gelato.

We first met Daniele Cossu in spring 2024, after he came highly recommended by our friends at Lolla Sardegna. Rafaela described Daniele as one of the most passionate beekeepers she had ever met — someone who is consistently recognized at Italy’s most prestigious honey competition, Tre Gocce d’Oro.

Speaking with Daniele feels like being in the presence of a true honey whisperer. Never before had we learned so many details about beekeeping, the production process, the different honeys, and what sets each one apart. Daniele comes across as someone who has devoted his life to one ultimate goal: producing some of the finest Sardinian honeys.

While it was Daniele’s celebrated Corbezzolo honey that first drew us in, we must point out that every other variety we tasted was equally intense and had a fabulous texture.

Daniele’s organic honeys range from the much-praised Corbezzolo to Asphodel, Chestnut, Mediterranean Maquis, Fennel, Thistle, Cistus, and more — all gathered in and around the pristine Sardinian hills of Simaxis and Nuoro, a region of the world known for its exceptional longevity.

🇮🇹 Due Gocce d’Oro – Grandi Mieli d’Italia 2025 (Two Golden Drops)

🇮🇹 Tre Gocce d’Oro – Grandi Mieli d’Italia 2024 (Three Golden Drops) the highest national recognition

🇮🇹 Tre Gocce d’Oro – Grandi Mieli d’Italia 2023 (Three Golden Drops) the highest national recognition

🇮🇹 Tre Gocce d’Oro – Grandi Mieli d’Italia 2018 (Three Golden Drops) the highest national recognition

Gocce d’Oro is one of Italy’s most prestigious competitions dedicated to high-quality honey. Organized annually by the Italian National Beekeeping Observatory (Osservatorio Nazionale Miele), it brings together hundreds of beekeepers from across the country. Each entry is carefully evaluated by panels of experts and trained tasters, who judge on aspects such as purity, aroma, flavor profile, and texture.

The name “Gocce d’Oro”, meaning “Drops of Gold”, symbolizes both the preciousness of honey and the artistry of traditional beekeeping craftsmanship. Winning an award at this competition is a mark of excellence and recognition, highlighting honeys that truly represent the richness of Italy’s diverse landscapes and floral varieties.