Domaine Abbatucci - Faustine Rouge 2025
In the Taravo valley, south of Ajaccio, Domaine Comte Abbatucci holds a unique place in the Corsican wine landscape. Jean-Charles Abbatucci continues a family tradition closely linked to the preservation of island grape varieties and the understanding of their natural environment. The vineyard stretches over granite arena slopes, between sea and mountains, in a Mediterranean climate tempered by the relief and air circulation. Managed biodynamically for over twenty years, the estate pays special attention to soil life, vine balance, and the plant diversity surrounding the plots. Faustine, created at the birth of Jean-Charles Abbatucci's daughter, forms the heart of the range and is available in three colors. The red clearly expresses the character of the Sciaccarellu grape, combined with Niellucciu to add depth and structure. Its style favors aroma, softness, and Mediterranean freshness rather than concentration or pronounced oak influence.
Faustine Rouge 2025 blends 70% Sciaccarellu and 30% Niellucciu from old vines rooted in granite arenas. The grapes are hand-harvested and gravity-fed to the cellar to minimize handling. The harvest is destemmed without crushing, preserving whole berries and promoting gradual extraction. Maceration lasts about a month in concrete vats, with regular pump-overs and spontaneous fermentations driven by naturally occurring yeasts. After draining and pressing the marc, the different juices are separated before aging. The wine then rests for six months in stainless steel tanks, without oak contact, to preserve the fruit's clarity and the aromatic expression of Corsican grape varieties. The 2025 vintage offers ripe and generous material, balanced by juicy acidity and the naturally spicy character of Sciaccarellu.
The color presents a bright cherry hue with ruby reflections. The nose evokes raspberry, black cherry, and wild berries, accompanied by notes of myrtle, violet, and maquis herbs. With aeration, pepper, licorice, and a touch of camphor emerge, giving the bouquet a deeply insular identity. The palate has a savory flesh but maintains remarkable fluidity thanks to fine, silky tannins. Niellucciu adds mid-palate structure, while Sciaccarellu extends red fruits, spices, and floral nuances. The finish remains fresh and persistent, with a return to cherry, pepper, and aromatic plants. Slightly chilled, Faustine Rouge will accompany herb lamb chops, grilled meats, Corsican charcuterie, vegetable tian, or aged sheep's tomme cheese.
Grape varieties: 70% Sciaccarellu, 30% Niellucciu
