26.57: Vermentino di Gallura DOCG Superiore Cru

26.57 is crafted from a single parcel in Balaiana, a site chosen for its altitude and mineral composition. The vineyard’s 400-meter elevation and decomposed granite soils give Vermentino a distinctive saline backbone, beautifully complemented by aromatic herbs typical of the Gallura landscape. This Cru reflects Cantina Canu’s pursuit of maximum territorial identity, revealing a Vermentino of natural depth and clarity.

Intense straw yellow with luminous highlights, the wine opens with Mediterranean floral notes—gorse, helichrysum, wild blossoms—followed by white stone fruit, fresh herbs, and a marked saline-mineral character typical of Gallura’s granitic soils.

On the palate, 26.57 shows structure, persistence and superb balance, combining vibrant freshness with savory tension. Aromatic herbs such as thyme and rosemary enrich the finish, leaving an impression of elegant depth.

Pairing: Ideal with Mediterranean seafood dishes, structured fish preparations, grilled white meats, fresh and lightly aged cheeses.

Nestled between granite hills, just a few kilometers from Luogosanto – a small town that has become one of the most iconic wine regions of Sardinia and Italy – lies Cantina Canu, a boutique winery in the heart of the Gallura, and also in our hearts.

At about 300 meters above sea level stands a carefully restored Stazzo from the 19th century – the traditional Gallurese stone house that once embodied the pastoral life of this region. A place where people, agriculture, and nature lived in harmony. From the terrace of the Stazzo, a fascinating view opens up: rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, ancient olive groves, majestic holm oaks, and lush Mediterranean maquis.

At the center of Cantina Canu stand two contrasting souls: Carla Cualbu – young, visionary, and full of fresh ideas – and Antonello Nolis, a true Sardinian, deeply rooted in tradition and the land. What unites them is their shared passion: creating wines with heart and honesty – wines that reflect the love for this unique corner of Sardinia.

The Cantina – the beating heart of the estate

The winery is the heart of Cantina Canu. This is where the careful work in the vineyard reaches its peak – this is where the wines are born.

Right next to the historic 19th-century section, the original Stazzo, a modern area for processing the grapes has been built. In this small yet state-of-the-art production facility, grapes from almost eight hectares of vineyards surrounding the building are processed.

The Cantina lies in an untouched, wild landscape – in the heart of Gallura, yet close to the main towns and the east coast of Sardinia. This special microclimate, shaped by fresh winds and moderate temperatures, is ideal for grape ripening. The soil consists mainly of weathered granite and clay – perfect conditions for mineral, elegant, and characterful wines.

Deispanta – Vermentino di Gallura DOCG

Their first wine, born from this passion. A true expression of Gallura – and a tribute to Carla’s great-great-grandfather, whose nickname “Ispànta” (“Wonder”) was. The name Deispanta honors his legacy of strength, amazement, and Sardinian spirit.

Originally created in collaboration with Andrea Pala (Italy’s Best Young Oenologist 2021), Deispanta immediately became a success and contributed to the growing popularity of Vermentino across Italy – it was, after all, the most-drunk wine of the Italian summer of 2023.

Porteddu – Cannonau di Sardegna DOC

After Deispanta came Porteddu – a fresh, fruity, yet profound interpretation of Cannonau, perhaps Sardinia’s most symbolic grape variety.

The name Porteddu means “small door” or “gateway” in Sardinian – a poetic reference to gaining access to a special place, to home, or perhaps to memories of times gone by. For Antonello, for whom Cannonau is part of his identity, this wine embodies exactly that: a return to the roots, with open doors for new things.

26.57 – A limited cru (1,300 bottles) with exceptional character

The latest creation: 26.57, an impressive Vermentino released in a limited edition from the estate’s best vineyard site. Powerful and elegant, with structured minerality – one of the best Vermentinos we have ever tasted.

A new chapter with Emiliano Falsini

Under the guidance of renowned oenologist Emiliano Falsini, known for his ability to combine tradition and innovation, Cantina Canu began a new chapter in 2022. His style focuses on terroir expression, minimal intervention, elegance, freshness, and clarity – allowing the wines’ true identity to shine.

His sensitive, determined, and meticulous approach – both in the vineyard and in the cellar – has significantly contributed to improving the quality of the wines day after day, vintage after vintage.