2016 Domaine Maestracci Calvi Rouge E Prove Corse 750 ml

The island of Corsica belongs to France. It’s closer to Italy. But it produces wines that are unlike anything else in the world. 

Hailing from the small island’s ancient granite slopes, and crafted from native varieties, Corsica’s best wines scarcely appear in the US and aren’t on the radar of many red wine drinkers. But with their unique mingling of French elegance and Italian savoriness, they absolutely should be. Especially this 2016 Domaine Maestracci Calvi, a bottle whose spice complexity and refreshing lift brilliantly express its mountainous seaside home.

When The New York Times called Corsica “one of the most exciting and distinctive wine regions in the world,” they named Maestracci one of its top estates, and this 2016 shows what had them so enthralled. Grown on the oldest vineyard plots of Maestracci’s sunny plateau just four miles from the sea, it shows the tantalizing red fruit and coastal freshness we love about Corsican wine.

The island is a patchwork of microclimates, formed by rugged peaks, an array of soils, and Mediterranean winds from all directions (some cold and others warm), comprising what Wine Enthusiast calls “terroir like no other.” Domaine Maestracci’s organically farmed vineyards sit near the island’s northern coast, in the foothills of Monte Grossu. Mountains rising in the distance, cool breezes rustling the vines, granite-streaked soil, and soft golden sunlight that begs for Adirondack chairs and a good book—evoking depth and elegance in equal parts.

That balance is built on the Niellucciu and Sciaccarellu varieties. The former is genetically identical to Sangiovese, although over the centuries it’s spent growing in Corsica, it’s gained a distinct identity, with bold tannins and robust savoriness. Sciaccarellu, on the other hand, is more delicate, bringing levity and bright acidity, while Grenache and Syrah add some Southern Rhône richness to the party. 

Aromatically, this Calvi Rouge seems bottomless, with notes of raspberry and red cherry opening the door to exotic spices, dried lavender, cedar, and dusty earth. Texture and grippy tannins on the palate frame notes of red fruit, dried herbs, fresh spice, and floral hints, with freshness reminiscent of the island’s energizing sea breezes. 

Corsica is situated between France and Italy, but has a culture all its own. The street signs display directions in both Corsican and French, with the French often graffitied out in a display of island pride. Producers craft wine with that same fierce independence, eschewing imitation in favor of terroir transparency. 

“There is no better place for any as yet uninitiated wine lovers to begin their tour” of Corsica than with Domaine Maestracci, says the Wine Advocate. And whether you’re familiar with Corsican wine or not, we couldn’t be happier to share one of our favorites.