Want to Live to 100? Drink This!

I am a huge fan of the book The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner. You may be familiar with this National Geographic journalist and author who studied the lives of centenarians around the globe. Dan identified common habits and traits among societies with the highest longevity, aka "The Blue Zones." As it turns out, red wine may play an important role.

There have been many studies on the health benefits of red wine, but in the Blue Zones, there is a certain red wine that stands above all others: Cannonau di Sardegna. Although this bold red grape is grown in many areas of the world where it is known as Grenache or Garnacha, Cannonau is thought to have originated on the Italian island of Sardinia (perhaps as long as 3,000 years ago!).

Sardinia has been classified as a Blue Zone and actually was the very first Blue Zone ever identified. Each day, Sardinians enjoy a glass or two of their local Cannonau wine with their meals. The key is moderate, yet consistent consumption - a bit with lunch and with dinner.

According to The Blue Zones, Cannonau wine has two-three times the number of flavonoids as other wines. Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant properties and many opine that foods rich in this compound can promote cardiovascular health, among other benefits. The polyphenols like Resveratrol found in the skin of grapes also have been shown to protect the body against damage and promote health.

Cannonau is a dry wine with juicy aromas and flavors of raspberry, strawberry, plum, oregano, white pepper, licorice, and coffee. It has low to medium acid with a medium to full body. Cannonau's skins are especially thick, giving the wine robust tannins.

The Blue Zones emphasizes that the camaraderie of sharing wine with family and friends at meals also plays an important role in the longevity of Sardinians. (Not to mention regular exercise, a Mediterranean diet and sunshine among other things...).

Red wine lovers can rejoice in the fact that red wine is regularly consumed in nearly every Blue Zone. Cannonau in particular may offer the most benefits, so be sure to search for it in your local wine shop or on a restaurant menu. Cannonau di Sardegna can offer a huge value for the price - definitely give it a try. Gather your family and friends to toast to good health and a long life! Sto Lat!