A Historical Review of Wine Significance in Corse Figari, Corsica

Introduction: Corse Figari, a wine region located in the southwestern part of the beautiful Mediterranean island of Corsica, France, has a rich and fascinating history. Although it may not be as widely known or famous as other wine regions, such as Bordeaux or Burgundy, Corse Figari is an essential part of the broader global wine landscape. This historical review aims to explore the key aspects of the region's winemaking heritage, its grapes, and the food pairings that make Corse Figari wines truly special.

Historical Context: The history of Corse Figari wine can be traced back to ancient times when the Phoenicians and Romans introduced grapevine cultivation on the island around 600 BC. Over the centuries, various civilizations, including the Genoese and the French, influenced the region's winemaking practices. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the phylloxera epidemic forced many vineyards to be uprooted, but the resilient Corsican vintners rebuilt their vineyards using American rootstocks.

Grapes: Corse Figari is known for its distinctive grape varieties, which include Niellucciu (also spelled Niellucci), Vermentinu, and Sciaccarellu. The red grape variety Niellucciu is the most widely planted, accounting for around 50% of Corse Figari's total vineyard area. This grape produces wines that exhibit dark fruit flavors and strong tannins, making them ideal companions to hearty meat dishes. Vermentinu, a white grape variety, contributes approximately 25% of the region's vineyard area. Known for its citrus and almond notes, it is often used to produce refreshing dry white wines and aromatic dessert wines. Sciaccarellu, another red grape, is planted on around 15% of Corse Figari's vineyards and adds complexity to the region's blends with its light color, low tannins, and high acidity.

Food Pairings: Corse Figari wines are renowned for their ability to pair well with an array of delicious Corsican and Mediterranean dishes. The bold red wines made from Niellucciu grapes complement hearty meats like wild boar or lamb, while the lighter Sciaccarellu wines enhance the flavors of seafood dishes such as bouillabaisse and sardines. The versatile white wines made from Vermentinu pair beautifully with various Mediterranean cheeses and herb-infused dishes.

Conclusion: Corse Figari's rich history, unique grape varieties, and delectable food pairings make it an essential part of the global wine landscape. By understanding the region's historical significance, we can appreciate the depth and complexity that Corse Figari wines bring to our tables. So raise a glass to Corse Figari – to its storied past, distinctive grapes, and delicious wines!

Region Name: Corse Figari Part of: None (Island region in France) Region Wine Style: Mediterranean-style wines with bold reds, light reds, and refreshing whites. Region Wine Style Related to: Italian and French winemaking traditions. Grapes: Niellucciu, Vermentinu, Sciaccarellu. Food Pairs With: Hearty meat dishes, seafood, Mediterranean cheeses, and herb-infused dishes.