Jerzu: The Capital of Cannonau and Heroic Viticulture

Clinging to steep limestone slopes in the shadow of the majestic Heels of Ogliastra, Jerzu is known throughout Sardinia and beyond as the "City of Wine." This picturesque village owes its fame to the production of Cannonau, a robust red wine rich in antioxidants that scientists link to the exceptional longevity of the inhabitants of the Sardinian Blue Zone. Jerzu embodies the essence of heroic viticulture, with vineyards cultivated on extreme slopes and steep lands tended entirely by hand.

The Winemaking Tradition and the Jerzu Wine Festival The history of Jerzu is indissolubilmente linked to the vine. In 1950, a small group of local winemakers founded the cooperative "Vitivinicola Antichi Poderi," which today collects the production of hundreds of small growers in the town, exporting award-winning labels worldwide. The connection between the town and its nectar is celebrated every year at the beginning of August with the famous Jerzu Wine Festival (Sagra del Vino).

During the festival, the historic stone cellars (cantine) of the old town open their doors to visitors. You can taste Cannonau DOC in its variations (young, classic, riserva) directly from the producers, accompanied by traditional foods and folk songs echoing through the narrow streets until late at night.

Outdoor Activities: Historic Center and Monte Sant'Antonio In addition to wine, Jerzu offers interesting opportunities for nature lovers and urban hikers:

• Historic Center Walk: The ancient stone houses, connected by steep steps and suggestive arches, offer splendid panoramic views of the underlying Pardu Valley.
• Trekking to Monte Sant'Antonio: A well-marked route climbs from the town toward the mountaintop, a limestone heel that houses a secular pine forest and a characteristic country church. From the summit, the view stretches to the sea of Tortolì.
• Climbing Cliffs: The vertical walls of the Heels surrounding the town offer spectacular sport climbing routes for all levels.

Flavors to Pair: Braised Goat and Cannonau Riserva The cuisine of Jerzu is vigorous and savory. Cannonau Riserva, warm and spicy, finds its perfect pairing in Braised Goat (Capra Stufata). The goat meat, coming from the wild herds of the Heels, is slowly cooked in a terracotta pot with local herbs (laurel, thyme, rosemary) and generously deglazed with Cannonau itself. The result is incredibly tender and flavorful meat, traditionally served with wet pistoccu bread and mature, savory pecorino cheese.

Wineries and Accommodations: Practical Information