Join us on a captivating journey to Corsica, the “Île de Beauté,” a unique Mediterranean island where wine is deeply intertwined with its vibrant character!
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating history of Corsican viticulture, from its ancient Greek and Roman roots to the influences of Genoese, Pisan, and French cultures, leading to a remarkable 20th-century renaissance focused on quality and indigenous varieties.
Discover the island’s extraordinary terroir, a symphony of rugged mountains plunging into the sea, creating diverse microclimates. Learn how dominant winds like the Mistral and Libeccio maintain healthy vineyards, and how incredibly varied soils—schist, granite, limestone, and clay—impart unique characteristics to the wines.
We’ll spotlight Corsica’s autochthonous grape treasures:
Niellucciu (red): A robust soul akin to Sangiovese, yielding structured, tannic wines with dark red fruit, spice, and distinct “maquis” notes, boasting excellent aging potential.
Sciacarellu (red): The epitome of elegance, offering fresh, aromatic wines with notes of pepper, wild berries, and a floral touch, known for soft, silky tannins.
Vermentinu (white): The white queen, celebrated for vibrant freshness, pronounced minerality, and citrus/Mediterranean herb aromas, versatile and with aging potential. We’ll also touch on the role of other traditional grapes like Biancu Gentile and international varieties like Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah in blends.
Understand the French AOC system and Corsica’s 9 controlled appellations, ensuring authenticity and reflecting the island’s diverse regions like Patrimonio (oldest, Niellucciu stronghold), Ajaccio (Sciacarellu’s home), and Cap Corse (famous for sweet Muscat wines).
Tune in to uncover how Corsican wines are not just beverages, but a true reflection of the island’s authentic, indomitable spirit and breathtaking beauty. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating wine regions!
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