2021 Clos Venturi - Vin de Corse Rouge Brama Sciaccarellu (750ml)

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Manu Venturi’s winery is located in Ponte Leccia, Corsica, an area not too far south of Patrimonio in the northern part of the island. Ponte Leccia is the farthest Corsican terroir from the sea and the highest in elevation. It stands out for its ideal climate – combining continental freshness and southern maturity but also for the unique sandstone hill where the vineyards are located on the central fault of the Corsican island. Pair that with an almost religious approach to biodynamic agriculture and a meticulous organization of sheep, chickens, horses and cows that coexist on this special sandstone hill, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for something truly special and unique.

This is magnificent Corse rouge made from the Sciaccarellu grape, and I would argue at the price, one of the best on the island. Expressive dark cherry and ground spice aromatics with wild herbal undertones. The palate offers tart red berry and black pepper, framed by savory forest and umami notes. Delicate and lifted with a Nebbiolo-esque lightness, it has just the right amount of integrated tannic grip on the finish to carry the wine with food. Enjoy with charcuterie and cheese but it's also delicate enough to have with roasted chicken or grilled fish. A serious value showcasing the potential of Corsican Sciaccarellu! Best served with a slight chill at around 60F. 

Despite being strongly associated with Corsica, DNA analysis suggests that Sciaccarellu likely originated in Tuscany, where it is known as Mammolo. It is affectionately known as Corsican Pinot Noir as it as an ethereal, weightless quality that will remind you or Pinot Noir, but it has the spice and depth that will remind you more of haunting Tuscan reds.