Caricagiola

The Caricagiola is a widely cultivated grape variety found predominantly in Sardinia, the island that is believed to be its place of origin. It is particularly prevalent in the Gallura region, where it thrives in the area's unique climate and soil conditions. However, its strong resemblance to the black Vermentino Nero grape suggests that it may also have Ligurian origins. Another theory regarding its provenance links it to Mourvèdre Nero or Bonvendro, a grape variety from southern Portugal, which was once considered a specific biotype of Mourvèdre that was commonly grown in southern France and Spain.

The name "Caricagiola" is derived from its high yielding nature, as the term "Carcaghjolu Nero" translates to "the black one that gives a lot of grapes." Despite its widespread presence across Sardinia, where it is included in nearly all of the island's Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) appellations, it is notably absent from any Denominazione di Origine Controllata o Protetta (DOC or DOP) appellations.

Caricagiola grapes are characterized by their black, medium sized, sub oval berries, which have thick, firm, and highly waxy skin that appears black purple in color. The grape clusters are generally medium in size, semi dense, and take on a conical or cylindrical conical shape, occasionally displaying a winged structure. The vine itself exhibits strong vigor and is known for its abundant and consistent production.

When vinified, Caricagiola produces a deep purplish red wine that is rich in tannins but lacks refinement and harmony. Due to these characteristics, it is rarely used for single varietal wines and is instead almost exclusively blended with other grapes to enhance the structure and complexity of the final product.