2021 Domaine de Vaccelli Ajaccio Corsica

The wines of Corsica have long sat on the fringe. It's not a huge travel destination, though it probably should be, because the natural beauty there is overwhelming. Yes, technically this large Mediterranean island is part of France but culturally it is uniquely Corsican. The wines there are based on old clones of Italian varieties like Sangiovese and Mammolo which have evolved into Niellucciu and Sciaccarellu respectively. The main white grape is Vermentino, locally known as Vermentinu. Vaccelli focuses primarily on Sciaccarello for reds. Located in the southern part of the island, this grape thrives on the granitic soils. There is always a high toned acid structure, similar to a Sicilian wine, but with a more elegant finish in most cases. This is a wine that loves a bit of air as it opens but rewards so much in return. This straddles the profile of Nebbiolo and Nerello Mascalese for those looking for comparisons. Absolutely terrific with roasted pork with some sauteed bitter greens and savory meaty pasta dishes.