Clos Fornelli Corse Niellucciu Red

On the eastern edge of Corsica above the coastal town of Aleria on the Tyrrhenian Sea sits Clos Fornelli, a family property of 45 hectares, 18 of which are planted to vines. Owner Josée Vanucci and her husband Fabrice Couloumère organically farm classic Corsican varieties like Vermentinu, Sciaccarellu, and Niellucciu, along with the lesser known white grapes of Biancu Gentile and Genovese, and red grape Minustellu. The AOC Corse vineyards roll along the plains on the terraces of the Bravone River in the Castagniccia mountain range. Different than the more familiar wine regions on the western side of the island, nights in the east are typically cooler thanks to the mountains rising from the sea, shortening sun exposure and thus preserving freshness and aromatics in the wines.

From meticulously farmed vineyards in a unique micro-climate that combines Mediterranean sun with cool air from the sea and nearby mountains, comes this round, spicy, medium-bodied red made from Niellucciu and a smidge of the ancient and rare Corsican variety of Minustellu. Extremely versatile, this wine can be served with pasta or risotto, red meat and game birds, and aged cheeses.