Taste the unique sun-soaked flavours of the Patrimonio wines produced in the beautiful Nebbio Valley, a natural site inscribed on the World Heritage List.
Situated between Bastia and the picturesque port town of Saint Florent, the glorious vineyards of Corsica’s most prestigious appellation yield world-class wines popular among visitors indulging in a gourmet break.
Read on to discover the best wines to try, must-visit wineries, top varietals, history, and more. Enjoy the wine lover’s guide!
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AOP PATRIMONIO
Out of nine AOP (appellation d’origine protégée) regions in Corsica, the Patrimonio appellation is the oldest one dating back to 1968 with a reputation reaching the Middle Ages.
Located on the northern coast of the island at the foot of Cap Corse, it is based on limestone-rich chalk and clay soils, distinct from the rest of the island. The region benefits from daily temperature amplitudes and coastal winds thus reducing the impact of heat on grapes.
The produced wines are characterized by their complexity, are capable of aging, yet reveal real freshness and lack heaviness.
Along with the rest of Corsica’s AOPs, Patrimonio has been considered one of the most exciting wine regions in France. Committed to preserving the best qualities of the island’s vegetal heritage, dynamic and passionate winemakers implement in their work centuries-old know-how with modern-day techniques.
The majority of the appellation’s producers have converted to organic farming focusing their efforts on maintaining and enhancing ecological balance, sustainability, and the conservation of all resources.
In recent years the appellation has been rediscovering indigenous Corsican grape varieties with the resurgence of Bianco Gentile and Genovese for the whites, and Minustellu, Carcaghjolu Neru, and Morescono for the reds. These wines are labeled under the Vin de France category as the varieties used for their production are not authorized within the Patrimonio AOP.
ESSENTIAL FACTS
- AOP Patrimonio covers over 400 hectares of vines.
- Vineyards are located in 7 municipalities: Barbaggio, Farinole, Oletta, Patrimonio, Poggio d’Oletta, Saint Florent, San Pietro di Tenda.
- The region is divided into numerous small properties benefiting from micro-climates and various terroirs.
- There are 43 estates within the appellation.
- Annual production oscillates around 15000 hectolitres made up of red (42%), white (33%), and rose (25%) wines.
- Patrimonio is the first AOP in France to forbid chemical weeding with the new law coming into effect from the 2021 vintage.
GRAPE VARIETIES OF PATRIMONIO
NIELLUCCIO
Nielluccio, a close cousin of the Tuscan Sangiovese, is a principal Corsican red wine grape variety composing up to 95% of the AOP’s reds, also used in the production of the rose wines. According to the most recent appellation regulations, Nielluccio must constitute at least 90% of the reds and 75% of the rose wines. This robust, ruby red in colour variety translates into a wine of profound aromatic complexity revealing red berry and spicy Mediterranean herb aromas. Most expressive after 2 to 3 years of aging, it pairs beautifully with cold cuts, grilled or stewed meat, game, and cheese.
VERMENTINO
Exquisite Vermentino, also known as Malvoisie de Corse, is the exclusive grape variety for white wine within the Patrimonio appellation. Perfectly expressing its unique terroirs, it boasts an array of lush fruity, and floral aromas with gripping mineral undertones. Juicy and creamy, the Vermentino white is excellent as an aperitif, served with grilled fish, seafood, or cheese. Perfect when chilled and enjoyed on a warm summer day.
SCIACCARELLO
Sciaccarello, the main red grape variety in the granite soils of southern Corsica, is also used in the Patrimonio red and rose blends alongside Nielluccio. Originating in Tuscany, this resilient old variety yields lightly-coloured soft wines with red fruit and spicy notes. Used in rose blends, Sciaccarello contributes to a delicate pale pink colour and fresh berry aromas.
GRENACHE
Grenache, one of the most widely planted red wine grape varieties in the world, is also grown in the Patrimonio AOP to accompany Nielluccio as a blend wine. Spicy, red fruit flavours and soft tannins add to wines’ aromatic complexity, balance, and capacity for aging.
MUSCAT DU CAP CORSE
The Muscat du Cap Corse region produces excellent sweet dessert wines from grapes grown on the northernmost peninsula of Corsica but also within several communes that belong to the Patrimonio AOP. Produced in the vin doux naturel (fortified wine) style the Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains reveals a unique freshness and radiance balanced by complex honeyed notes of candied fruit and citrus flavours. This famous golden-hued nectar perfectly accompanies dessert, particularly a delicious Corsican Fiadone, foie gras, or cheese. It is equally rewarding as an aperitif or a post-dinner drink.
ENJOY 4×4 EXCURSIONS FROM BASTIA
- Day tour to Cap Corse and Saleccia Beach – a 9-hour long adventure aboard an off-road vehicle to experience some of Corsica’s most beautiful landscapes. You will discover the authentic perched villages of Cap Corse, Desert des Agriates, and the beach of Saleccia- one of the island’s most famous sandy coves. A 2-hour swimming break will help you to refresh after the adventurous drive. 4×4 rides are not suitable for pregnant women. Reservations may be made online.
PATRIMONIO WINES – ORGANIC, BIODYNAMIC OR NATURAL?
ORGANIC
The Patrimonio Appellation is a pioneer of organic farming focused on eliminating synthetic herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers. Almost all producers cultivating 400 hectares that comprise this exciting wine region run their estates in accordance with the organic vine cultivation principles or are in the process of conversion.
Products used to control the fungal diseases in organic vineyards are based on copper and sulfur with various methods of mechanical and manual weed control used for the soils.
This type of agriculture ensures biodiversity and sustainability of natural heritage although it generally requires more labour. Prices of organic wines reflect the amount of resources provided to manufacture the final product.
BIODYNAMIC
Biodynamic viticulture is based on the ideas of Rudolf Steiner, a 20th-century philosopher, and mystic, a founder of Anthroposophy. He called for strict organic farming methods complemented by the use of additional biodynamic preparations such as 500 (cow dung) or 501 (horn silica), as well as the inclusion of the lunar calendar in agricultural activities. Some argue that such an approach lacks scientific underpinnings.
However, compared to conventional farming, the implementation of biodynamics has proved to enhance surface-rich micro-fauna in the soil thus restoring its fertility. The strengthened natural defenses of the vine boost the plant’s resistance to diseases and elements.
Currently, there are 9 estates in Corsica practising biodynamic farming. Within the Patrimonio Appellation, they include Yves Leccia, Domaine Leccia, Domaine Guidicelli, and Clos de Bernardi.
NATURAL WINES
Winemaking is considered a marriage of science and art where the critical process of fermentation when yeasts convert sugar into alcohol, shapes the produced wine, its flavours, and aromas.
Some winemakers choose not to add any foreign strains of yeast to the grape juice to start the fermentation but rather rely on the native ones in order to preserve the original character of the wine.
A natural, low-intervention fermentation is thought to be more challenging but the resulting raw, authentic wines are the best ambassadors for their specific terroir.
Patrimonio natural wine producers include Cantina di Torra- Nicolas Mariotti Bindi, Clos Marfisi, and Domaine Arena.
WINE TASTING IN PATRIMONIO – 7 MUST-VISIT WINERIES
1. YVES LECCIA
Lieu dit Morta Piana, 20232 Poggio d’Oletta, Tel +33 04 95 307233
On site – wine tasting and shop
Biodynamic wine production
An excellent wine address where longstanding winemaking traditions have been perfected by three generations of passionate winegrowers. Yves Leccia, a qualified winemaker accompanied by his equally devoted wife Sandrine, cultivates 15 hectares of clay, limestone and schist soils yielding premium wines recognized worldwide for their supreme quality. Actively involved in the dynamic life of the Patrimonio appellation, Yves has been a pioneer of Corsica’s wine industry renewal.
WINES TO TRY
- l’Altru Biancu – a magnificent white wine made of Biancu Gentile, an indigenous Corsican grape variety producing fresh, mineral wines with notes of flower, citrus, and honey.
- E Croce Rouge – a perfect blend of red grape varieties comprising 90% Nielluccio and 10% Grenache. An elegant well-balanced wine with red fruit flavours and smooth tannins.
2. CLOS MARFISI
D81, 20253 Patrimonio, Tel +33 04 95 370749
On site – wine tasting and shop
Natural wines, organic farming
This remarkable 15-hectare family estate created in 1870 has already seen four generations of winegrowers craft authentic wines with traditional AOP Patrimonio grape varieties. In 2015, Julie and Mathieu Marfisi, representing the young generation of the Patrimonio producers officially took the reins of the property injecting their youthful zeal to well-established ancestral traditions. Dedicated to organic farming in harmony with nature, they implement a similar philosophy in the winery producing low-intervention natural wines.
WINES TO TRY
- Uva Blanc – a seductive Rimenese and Vermentino blend marked by white fruit, floral and spicy aromas begotten on the sunny slopes of the estate.
- Uva Rouge – an outstanding blend made of 25 % Minustellu, 25% Carcaghjolu Neru, and 50% Nielluccio, all harvested from aged vines. A round, fruity wine expressing fresh, spicy notes.
3. CANTINA DI TORRA – NICOLAS MARIOTTI BINDI
Torra, 20232 Oletta Tel +33 06 12 05 24 59
On site – winery, wine tasting, shop
Natural wines, organic farming
Passionate, talented, and hardworking, Nicolas Mariotti Bindi represents the young generation of Corsican winegrowers fully committed to producing exceptional wines that embody the essence of the region’s unique terroir. Thriving on contact with the land, driven by his dreams, Nicolas has created a stellar small-batch estate that has granted him worldwide critical acclaim for his hand-crafted natural wines. Joined by his dedicated wife Julie, he continues his lifelong winemaking adventure in one of the most beautiful corners of Corsica.
WINES TO TRY
- Albore Blanc – a superb 100% Vermentino based on three vintages blended in equal parts. A sophisticated naturally-fermented wine with fresh citrus notes and a long finish.
- Murusaglia Rouge – a quintessentially Corsican Nieluccio red perfectly expressing its origin. Benefits from an excellent balance between tannins, spices, and red fruit aromas.
4. DOMAINE NOVELLA
Lieu Dit Corso 20232 Oletta, Tel +33 0495 390741
On site – winery, tasting, shop
Assorted wines without sulfates, organic farming
Domaine Novella, a 20-hectare family vineyard proudly represents the region’s winemaking and vine-growing excellence. Founded in 1950, it is now run by Pierre-Marie Novella, an accomplished winemaker wholeheartedly devoted to organic farming embracing a holistic approach that seeks to create balanced natural ecosystems. In his winery, strategically located between Saint Florent and Oletta, Pierre produces wines of exceptional finesse perfectly reflecting not just their fascinating terroir but also the author’s generous, warm spirit.
WINES TO TRY
- Terra Mea Blanc – a magnificent sulfite-free Vermentino. A balanced wine with fresh, clean flovours of white fruit and apples with a long finish.
- A Mortella Reouge – an elegant and expressive Nieluccio red harvested from a plot of old vines. Round, balanced yet powerful, it is also sulfite-free.
5. DOMAINE ORENGA DE GAFFORY
Lieu-dit Morta Majo, 20253 Patrimonio, Tel +33 0495 374500
On site – winery, tasting, shop
Organic farming
Domaine Orenga de Gaffory, an organically run family estate embodies the perfect marriage of traditional craftsmanship with a passion for wine. Created in 1966 by Pierre Orenga de Gaffory this flagship Patrimonio property is now run by his son Henri. 56 hectares of limestone-rich chalk and clay soils are planted with traditional Corsican varieties producing high-quality noble wines renowned worldwide. This classic cellar should be a must-stop for lovers of dessert wines wishing to taste some of the best local Muscat.
WINES TO TRY
- Cuvée des Gouverneurs Rouge – an outstanding Nieluccio red wine handpicked from aged vines. Rich, complex with a smooth texture and intense black fruit and vanilla notes.
- Rappo – a fortified sweet wine produced from Aleatico grapes. This blend of several vintages is simply delicious with its complex bouquet of cherry, raspberry, and woody flavours, and a perfect balance between sweet and bitter notes.
6. DOMAINE MONTEMAGNI
Puccinasca, 1850 D81, 20253 Patrimonio, Tel +33 0603170126
On site – tasting, shop
Organic farming
Long-standing winemaking traditions of the estate go back to 1850 when the highly esteemed Mantemagni family started their multi-generation wine adventure. Today, the Domaine is represented by Louis Montemagni, a remarkable 95-year-old gentleman who is not just the beloved patriarch of the family but also a revered champion for the whole Patrimonio Appellation. Organically cultivated 81 hectares of the estate yield first-rate wines loyal to their natural heritage. With a comprehensive collection of different styles, the emblematic Domaine Montemagni is bound to satisfy all palates.
WINES TO TRY
- Menhir Rose – a luscious Corsican Nieluccio rose perfect to accompany a Mediterranean summer lunch. Fresh and round, it boasts generous red fruit, strawberry, and pomegranate flavours.
- Menhir Prestige Muscat – an elegant Muscat made from handpicked grapes cultivated on limestone terraces. This radiant dessert wine reveals rose, apricot, and candid fruit notes with a full, long finish.
7. DOMAINE LECCIA
Hameau de Canale, 20253 Patrimonio, Tel +33 0495 371135
On site – tasting, shop
Biodynamic wine production
Faithful to the region’s terroir, Domaine Leccia is where long-standing generational tradition intertwines with passion for excellence in winemaking. The talented young enologist Lisandru who joined his aunt Anette Leccia in 2015, cultivates 13 hectares of prime clay-limestone soils in accordance with the demanding biodynamic principles transfiguring the precious ancestral know-how. Produced wines are pure, refined, yet complex and expressive. Widely acclaimed by peers and critics, they perfectly translate the Appellation’s exceptional qualities and character.
WINES TO TRY
- Pettale Rouge – a superb Nieluccio red wine with a deep garnet colour and red fruit, spicy, and roasted flavours. Good capacity for aging.
- Muscat – top-quality Corsican Muscat crafted from grapes picked at perfect ripeness. With its honey, fig, and candid peach notes it pairs wonderfully with foie grass or blue cheese.
OTHER PREMIUM PATRIMONIO WINES TO TRY
- Domaine Antoine Marie Arena, Hauts de Carco, white wine
- Domaine Jean-Baptiste Arena, Morta Maio, red wine
- Clos San Qulico, Minera, white wine
- Domaine Giacometti, Sempre Cuntentu, red wine
- Domaine Guidicelli, Patrimonio Rouge, red wine
- Clos Signadore, A Mandria di Signadore Rouge, red wine
- Clos Teddi, Grand Cuvée Blanc, white wine
- Domaine Gentile, Patrimonio Rouge, red wine
- Domaine Santamaria, Patrimonio Rouge, red wine
WHERE TO BUY THE PATRIMONIO WINES – RECOMMENDED ADDRESSES
1. LA CAVE DES AMIS
Immeuble le Glacier, 20217 Saint-Florent
Tel +33 0420000763
An excellent wine boutique located in the center of Saint Florent opposite the main port car park. It was founded by two young winemakers Mathieu Marfisi (Clos Marfisi) and Pierre-Francois de Bernardi (Clos de Bernardi). In the shop, you will find a good selection of organic, biodynamic, and natural wines from over 20 local estates. Other Corsican and continental appellations are also represented.
2. EPICERIE SCOTTO
Village, 20217 Saint-Florent
Tel +33 0495 370047
The boutique has a big selection of Corsican wines but you may also purchase local specialties such as the Corsican cheese or charcuterie. The epicerie is strategically located in the heart of Saint Florent on Place Doria behind the church.
ENJOY 4X4 EXCURSIONS FROM BASTIA
- Off-road excursion to the Agriates and Ghignu Beach– a day trip to Desert des Agriates, Corsica’s renowned natural site rich with endemic species of flora and fauna. During a 4-hour break at Ghignu, a sublime isolated beach, you can relax in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The tour is limited to 6 participants. You may book your tickets online.
SAN MARTINU WINE TRADITION
On 11th November you may take part in traditional celebrations of St. Martin’s Day dedicated to baptizing and tasting of the new vintage. Saint Martin, the martyred patron of Patrimonio and its winegrowers, symbolizes abundance, generosity, and the spirit of sharing.
The feast starts with a mass celebrated in the beautiful baroque Eglise Saint-Martin followed by a procession and a blessing of the new wine. The party continues into late afternoon hours with delicious regional specialities served alongside mouth-watering Corsican wines.
This popular annual gathering attracts thousands of visitors who are invited to explore the local winemaking heritage and participate in celebrating an inseparable part of the true insular identity.
EMBARK ON A SAILING TOUR TO BEACHES OF THE AGRIATES FROM SAINT FLORENT
- Relax under sails gliding over glistening waves of the sea. Discover some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean- Fiume Santu, Lotu, and Saleccia. At each stop of your trip, you will have an opportunity to snorkel in the transparent waters lapping the shores of Desert des Agriates. Imp tip: the excursion is not suitable for pregnant women. Learn more about this magical sea adventure and book your tickets here.
PATRIMONIO WINE PRODUCERS
Domaine Antoine Arena • Domaine Antoine-Marie Arena • Domaine Jean-Baptiste Arena • Clos de Bernardi • Clos Marfisi • Domaine Gentile • Clos San Quilico • Domaine Orenga de Gaffory • Domaine Devichi • Domaine Montemagni • Clos Santini • Domaine Stephanie Olmeta • Nicolas Mariotti Bindi – Cantina di Torra • Domaine Jean-Noel Grossi • Domaine Dominici • Clos Signadore • Domaine Leccia • Cave Brizzi • Domaine de Catarelli • Yves Leccia Vigneron • Domaine Pastricciola • Domaine Giacometti • Clos Aliviu • Clos Teddi • Domaine Guidicelli • Domaine Santamaria • Domaine Novella • Domaine Lazzarini • Domaine Boccheciampe • Domaine Paradella • Domaine Aliso Rossi • Domaine U Murtone • Domaine Pinelli • Vini Maestracci • Domaine Marengo
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