Translation missing: en.CORSICA: CORSICA

The “French” island of Corsica is unique in many ways. Aside from its terroir and climate, it also happens to be closer to Italy, which is why the varieties planted here are often of Italian descent - Nielluccio (Sangiovese) and Vermentinu (Vermentino). These wines would appeal to fans of Tuscan wines looking to branch out given the similarities in climate and varieties used. 

LOCATION:
Corsica is an island sitting just north of Sardegna in the Mediterranean, roughly 90km off the west coast of Italy. Corsica has a predominantly French influence after coming under their rule in 1796 but also has a significant Italian influence as well as some Algerian influence following a large amount of Algerian immigration in the 1950s. 

TERROIR:
Corsica has a Mediterranean climate and enjoys more sunshine than anywhere else in mainland France. Consequently, there is little rainfall outside of winter so there is practically no threat of mildew or any disease pressure, although yields must be kept in check to maintain concentration in the grapes as this environment can encourage excessive growth. Corsica is a mountainous island with diverse terroirs, although the most common soil type is granite-based and rich in silica, producing wines with finesse and minerality. From the west, the Libeccio wind encourages rain to sweep through the west coast more often than most, and in the northeast the Gregale wind also brings rain in. A strong yet dry wind also hails from Provence which sweeps through the vines and prevents them from absorbing too much rain. 

VARIETIES:
The three flagship grapes of the AOC wines of Corsica are: Vermentino (Patrimonio AOC) in the whites, and Nielluccio (Patrimonio AOC) and Sciacarello (Ajaccio AOC) in the red grapes. 

PRODUCERS:
Domaine de Vaccelli, Domaine Giudicelli, Domaine Comte Abbatucci, Yves Leccia, Clos Canarelli