How To Live To Be A 100: Move To Sardinia and Drink Cannanou

(Updated Jan 18, 2025)

When it comes to wine, many enthusiasts and connoisseurs are increasingly conscious of not only the flavors and aromas but also the potential health benefits. Cannanou wine, specifically, has gained attention as a potential "fountain of youth." Two years ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Alfonso Gagliano, author of Four Seasons in Sardinia: A Cultural Journey Through an Enchanted Island. As a native Sardinian who studied at the University of California at Davis—a renowned incubator for master winemakers—finding a more authoritative voice on Cannanou would be difficult. Especially now that Alfonso has added Sella & Mosca Brand Ambassador to his impressive resume.  Sella & Mosca is one of the island's largest wine producers.  

Island Life

"[Sardinians] tend not to live by the clock, and punctuality is not necessarily considered a virtue. Yet they outlive most clocks, for the island is home to some of the longest-living people on earth," writes Gagliano. He underscores that natives prize social interaction and walking, both of which are likely contributors to longevity. While the Cannanou grape cannot take sole credit for Sardinia’s famous centenarians, its role cannot be dismissed either. This interplay of lifestyle, diet, and wine is a central theme of Gagliano’s book, which serves as a comprehensive guide to the Sardinian way of living, eating, and, most importantly, drinking wine.

The Origin of Cannanou

Cannanou wine, also known as "Cannonao," "Cannonadu," or "Cannonau di Sardegna," originates in Sardinia, a Mediterranean island that is part of Italy. This red grape variety has been a cornerstone of Sardinian winemaking traditions for centuries. The exact origins of the Cannanou grape remain debated among experts. Some suggest it was introduced by the Phoenicians, ancient traders and sailors, while others believe it arrived during Spanish rule over the island. Regardless, Cannanou has become synonymous with Sardinia’s winemaking heritage and culture.

Antioxidant Richness

One of the strongest selling points of Cannanou wine has traditionally been its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Research has shown that Cannanou grapes, and by extension, the wine produced from them, are particularly rich in these health-promoting compounds. According to Gagliano, "The juice pressed from local Cannanou grapes goes through a long fermentation process while still in contact with its flavonoid-rich seeds and skins to produce a full-bodied and deeply flavorful red wine."

Resveratrol and Cardiovascular Health

Cannanou wine also contains notable amounts of resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grape skins that has been linked to potential cardiovascular benefits. Studies suggest that resveratrol may promote healthy blood circulation and support the function of blood vessels. This connection has led to speculation about the role of moderate wine consumption in the longevity of Sardinians. According to a 2012 study published in the journal Age and Ageing, the province of Nuoro—known for its centenarians—boasts about 22 centenarians per 100,000 inhabitants. Remarkably, in Sardinia, the gender ratio of centenarians is one to one, unlike in most Western countries where women far outnumber men at 100 years old.

Digestive Benefits and Gut Health

In traditional Sardinian culture, Cannanou wine is sometimes referred to as "the wine of life" due to its purported digestive benefits. It has long been a staple of Sardinian cuisine, with locals believing it aids digestion. While modern scientific research on this aspect is limited, the cultural significance of Cannanou wine as a promoter of gut health remains an intriguing topic.

Addressing Neo-Prohibitionist Claims

In recent years, neo-prohibitionist perspectives have gained traction, claiming that any amount of alcohol is harmful. These claims often rely on studies that conflate heavy drinking with moderate consumption, or that fail to account for lifestyle factors and dietary patterns that interact with alcohol consumption. While it is important to acknowledge the risks of excessive drinking, dismissing moderate wine consumption entirely ignores a body of research demonstrating potential benefits, particularly when paired with healthy lifestyles like the Mediterranean diet.

A critical review of the evidence reveals significant flaws in many anti-alcohol studies. For instance, some rely on self-reported data, which is notoriously unreliable, or fail to control for confounding variables such as smoking, lack of exercise, or pre-existing health conditions. Furthermore, the demonization of all alcohol consumption disregards cultural and historical contexts where moderate drinking is integrated into balanced diets and active lifestyles, as seen in Sardinia.

Cannanou wine, with its high levels of antioxidants and resveratrol, exemplifies the complexity of this debate. It is not merely a drink but part of a broader lifestyle that includes nutrient-rich foods, regular physical activity, and strong social connections—all of which contribute to health and longevity. Neo-prohibitionist arguments often strip away this context, reducing wine to a simplistic narrative of risk without acknowledging its role in holistic well-being.

A Balanced Perspective

Cannanou wine, with its origins in the picturesque landscapes of Sardinia, remains a symbol of the island's rich history and culture. Its antioxidant richness and moderate alcohol levels contribute to its allure. However, as with any dietary choice, moderation remains key. By integrating wine thoughtfully into a healthy lifestyle, one can enjoy its pleasures without undue risk.

In Sardinia, the toast to 100 years is: Cent'anni! With a glass of Cannanou in hand, this toast truly embodies the spirit of savoring life in all its richness.

(Note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.)