100% Sciaccarellu from Corsica, France. Organic, Low Intervention, Low Sulfite, Woman Winemaker.

HISTORY: The family estate of Clos Fornelli sits on Corsica’s eastern edge, just above the coastal town of Aleria on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Owner Josée Vanucci and her husband, Fabrice Couloumère, organically farm 18 ha of classic Corsican grape varietals in the deep, rocky alluvial soils of the Bravone River, with vine age ranging between 25-35 years old, below the massif of Castagniccia.

ABOUT: The proximity of the sea protects the vineyard from excessive drought, while the neighboring mountains (which reach a height of more than 2500 meters) generate cool air at night that refreshes the grapes and allows them to recover from the stress of the day-time heat. Soils are made up of ancient Alluvium, pebbles produced by erosion of the nearby rock formation (due to Bravone river). Not very fertile, but deep, which helps to optimize water management, an essential factor in the very dry climate of Corsica.

VITICULTURE: Farming method is intended to keep yields under 45 hl/ha: Cordon de Royat pruning, elimination of secondary buds to prevent the future grapes being choked by too much growth, leaf stripping, etc. The combination of low yields and ripe grapes are key factors in bringing out the terroir. All work is done with respect for the environment.

VINIFICATION: Three week fermentation with wild yeast in tank. Goes through malolactic fermentation, pumping over and treading. Total So2: 51 mg/l; Free So2: 19 mg/l. Aged in concrete vats 7 to 10 months with regular stirring.

TASTING NOTES: Full bodied dry Red wine. Rich Burgundy color, w/ Ruby hints. Perfumed aromas of Crushed Violets, Underripe Red Plum and Gravel. The bright, juicy Palate has hints of Spice, and is bursting with bright Red Berries, Cranberry, Wild Strawberry, Cherry, and Pomegranate. Vibrant acidity balances a plush texture w/ high, but polished tannins. Mineral, complex & deep, with a long finish.

FOOD PAIRING: An ideal red for Game, Grilled Fish, Lean Fish, Rich Fish, Pizzas, Pastas, White Meats, Poultry, Mild & Soft Cheese and Mediterranean Fare!