Quartz red 2023 Domaine de Vaccelli | Corsica

Quartz red 2023 | Domaine de Vaccelli

The 2023 red Quartz from Domaine de Vaccelli is a standout in Gérard Courrèges’ lineup.Bearing the IGP Île de Beautélabel —far from the high-profile appellations—this carefully crafted blend of local grape varieties embodies the quintessence of Corsican wine.

Terroirs and Grape Varieties

The vines sink their roots into granite-rich sandy soil—this weathered bedrock drains excess water, challenges the vines, and naturally concentrates the expression of the grape varieties. This poor, well-draining soil is the hallmark of Taravo. The blend combines three indigenous grape varieties: Carcaghjolu Neru and Minustellu in equal parts (40% each), complemented by Sciaccarellu (20%). Combining depth with a precious liveliness, Gérard Courrèges has created a layered and harmonious blend here, perfectly balanced.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The wine estate has been certified organic since 2019. The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts, without external intervention, which preserves the terroir’s character. Ageing lasts 28 months in demi-muids—medium-sized barrels that allow for slow oxygenation without imparting excessive oak. The result: a well-integrated structure, complex aromas, and a wine that shows no signs of haste.

Quartz red 2023 | Domaine de Vaccelli: The Sommelier’s Review

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin

Don’t be fooled by the “simple” IGP label. This wine has the density and length of a great terroir-driven red. The Carcaghjolu-Minustellu-Sciaccarellu blend, aged for 28 months in demi-muids, delivers one of the most accomplished profiles I’ve encountered in a Corsican red. It has aging potential through 2036: those with patience will be rewarded. To enjoy it now, decant for an hour at 17°C. The fruit opens up, the spices become more defined, and the granite-driven minerality comes fully to the fore.

The Nose

The nose opens with airy black fruits: wild blackberry, blackcurrant, and a hint of wild strawberry. Pepper and clove emerge quickly, carried by a light mentholated freshness. As it breathes, scents of Mediterranean scrub reveal its origin. A backdrop of blond tobacco and graphite settles in, creating a clean and persistent mineral profile.

Palate

On the palate, the attack is full-bodied and velvety. The tannins are fine, tight, and silky in texture, promising excellent aging potential. Compote-like black fruit unfolds with restraint, supported by lively acidity that balances the richness. Hints of spice and warm stone mark the finish. The granite-like minerality leaves a lingering salinity, with a slightly smoky aftertaste that prolongs the overall experience.

The Île de Beauté IGP: an appellation worth (re)discovering

The Île de Beauté IGP covers the entire territory of Corsica and offers winemakers greater flexibility in blending than the local AOPs. Far from being a second-tier designation, it encompasses some of the island’s most distinctive wines, particularly those made from indigenous Corsican grape varieties such as Sciaccarellu, Nielluccio, and Minustellu. Here, granite, schist, and the Mediterranean garrigue give rise to reds with a distinct minerality and a freshness unexpected for this latitude.

The 2023 Quartz exemplifies the full potential of the Île de Beauté PGI. The blend of native Taravo grape varieties, extended ageing in demi-muids, and the wine estate’s strict organic practices elevate this cuvée far beyond its administrative designation. It is a wine of terroir, patience, and character.