Saraja, a new project established in the Gallura region of northern Sardinia, is one of the island’s most exciting new producers, excelling with all 3 of its key varieties (Vermentino, Cannonau and Carignano).

Mark Hartmann is effectively the ‘front-man’ for the project, but this is in fact a collaboration between a team of five, all with a wealth of previous wine experience. They also work with renowned Italian consultant and winemaker Federico Curtaz. Despite many of the group having their roots in northern Italy, in Valle d’Aosta, they have a shared belief in the potential that Sardinia has to offer.

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, is an ancient and distinctive wine region shaped by its rugged landscape and maritime climate. Summers are long, hot, and dry, tempered by cooling sea breezes such as the maestrale, which help preserve acidity and protect vines from disease. Winters are mild, creating ideal conditions for viticulture. The island’s soils are varied and complex, ranging from granite and limestone to clay, volcanic deposits, and sandy coastal plains. These diverse terrains provide excellent drainage and impart unique mineral character to the wines.

Sardinia’s vineyards showcase a mix of indigenous and international grape varieties, though native grapes dominate. Cannonau (Grenache) is the flagship red, producing powerful yet elegant wines with notes of ripe red fruit, herbs, and spice. Carignano and Bovale also thrive, offering structure and depth. Among whites, Vermentino is most celebrated, especially in the Vermentino di Gallura DOCG, yielding crisp, aromatic wines with citrus, floral, and saline nuances. Nuragus and Vernaccia di Oristano add further local character, the latter often crafted in oxidative styles.

Wine styles range from fresh, zesty whites and rosés to robust, age-worthy reds and traditional sweet or fortified wines. Flavours often reflect the island’s Mediterranean identity: sun-drenched fruit, wild herbs, and a distinctive salty minerality.

Vermentino is a white grape variety believed to have originated in the western Mediterranean, likely in Italy or possibly Corsica, with a long history in coastal wine regions. It thrives in warm, sunny climates and is particularly associated with Liguria, Tuscany, and Sardinia in Italy, as well as Corsica and southern France (where it is known as Rolle). In recent years, plantings have expanded to Australia, California, and other New World regions with similar maritime conditions.

Viticulturally, Vermentino is well-suited to poor, rocky soils and resists drought, making it ideal for coastal and hillside vineyards. It tends to ripen late, maintaining good acidity even in hot weather. The grape’s aromatic potential is maximised with careful canopy management to protect from excessive sunburn.

Vermentino produces wines that range from crisp and refreshing to fuller-bodied, depending on ripeness and winemaking choices. The classic style is dry, light to medium-bodied, with zesty acidity and pronounced aromatics of citrus, green apple, pear, and tropical fruit, often accompanied by herbal notes of thyme, sage, or fennel, and a subtle saline minerality reflecting maritime influence. More textured examples may see lees ageing, adding richness and nutty complexity. Versatile and food-friendly, Vermentino is valued for its vibrant freshness and Mediterranean character.