Vin de Corse Sartène AOC

Vin de Corse Sartène holds a unique distinction in Corsican wine history: it was the island's first appellation to receive official quality recognition. VDQS status was granted on March 13, 1968, followed by promotion to full AOC status on April 2, 1976. The appellation sits within the larger Vin de Corse AOC framework as one of five village-level designations. The 1960s and 1970s saw significant vineyard expansion, driven in part by the arrival of Pieds-Noirs settlers following Algerian independence, who brought viticultural ambition to this already wine-rich corner of the island.

• VDQS status granted March 13, 1968, the first in Corsica
• AOC status confirmed April 2, 1976
• One of five village appellations within Vin de Corse AOC
• Vineyard expansion in the 1960s-1970s linked to Pieds-Noirs immigration

Sartène sits in the far south of Corsica, near the Gulf of Sartène, with vineyards planted at around 300 metres above sea level. The appellation spans 16 communes, and its boundaries are defined in part by the Taravo river, which separates it from Ajaccio AOC to the north. Soils are predominantly granite and granitic, rich in silica, with some argilo-siliceous pockets. The Mediterranean climate delivers hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The Libeccio, a strong wind blowing in from the direction of Gibraltar, is a defining climatic feature, helping to ventilate the vines and moderate growing conditions.

• Granite and silica-rich soils at approximately 300 metres elevation
• Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters
• Libeccio winds from Gibraltar ventilate and cool the vineyards
• Taravo river marks the northern boundary with Ajaccio AOC

Sartène produces red, rosé, and white wines. Sciaccarello is the primary red grape, often described as Corsica's answer to Pinot Noir, valued for its elegance and spicy character on granitic soils. Nielluccio, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Barbarossa, and Carcajolo nero are also authorised. Reds are rich and full-bodied with berry fruit and spice. Rosés are fruity and structured. Whites, made primarily from Vermentino, are floral and light, showing pale yellow colour with green reflections, notes of peach, citrus, and a characteristic mineral edge. Minimum alcohol is 11.5% for reds and 11% for rosés and whites.

• Sciaccarello is the flagship red grape, comparable to Pinot Noir in style
• Vermentino leads white wine production with floral, mineral, and citrus character
• Minimum alcohol: 11.5% for reds, 11% for rosés and whites
• Vinification and ageing must take place within the appellation boundaries

The appellation operates under strict production regulations. The base yield limit is set at 50 hectoliters per hectare, with a minimum planting density of 3,000 vines per hectare. Continuous presses are prohibited, reflecting a commitment to quality extraction. All vinification and ageing must occur within the appellation area. These rules apply across the 16 communes that make up the Sartène zone, ensuring that the wine's character remains tied to the specific granite terroir of this southern Corsican enclave.

• Yield limit: 50 hectoliters per hectare
• Minimum planting density: 3,000 vines per hectare
• Continuous presses are prohibited
• All vinification and ageing must occur within the appellation