Vines planted from 1960-1962. Cuvée's full name is "Ministre Imperial: Jacques-Pierre-Charles Abbatucci" who was a leading military figure under Napoleon’s Premier Empire, and then became a prominent consul under Napoleon III. Grapes crushed by foot and macerated 15 days. Elevage in old 600L barrel. Vines are planted at a density of 3,500 vines per hectare, natural grass ground cover between each vineyard row. Biodynamic practices have been followed since 2000. All fruit is harvested by hand.
"Beyond his status as a biodynamic farming guru, Jean-Charles Abbatucci has conducted deep research into the history of Corsican wine, making him the guardian of the island’s viticultural heritage. His father laid down the groundwork when he salvaged and replanted an extensive collection of nearly extinct indigenous grapes, allowing Jean-Charles to reap the benefits through cuvées such as this striking medley of Sciaccarello, Nielluccio, Carcajolo-Nero, Montanaccia, Morescono, Morescola, and Aleatico. Corsican vignerons of an era past recognized the unique qualities that each variety brought to the table, and now Abbatucci’s complex blend confirms that the whole is indeed greater than the sum of its parts. Raised in foudres, this red is nuanced, finessed, and coursing with mystical biodynamic energy." - Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant.
Intense garnet-red color. The nose is powerful and complex, evoking the fragrances of Corsica with hints of ripe, tart red fruit (redcurrant and blackcurrant) and more subtle aromas of aromatic plants (myrtle). Full-bodied on the palate, with good length and fine woody notes. The characteristic mineral note. Elegant tannins elegant, the finish is complex, with long-lasting aromatic sustained by notes of ripe fruit.