If you aren’t familiar with Corsican wines, the main event here is Patrimonio. This appellation covers approximately 800 acres with half of them being owned by the two largest producers in the island, and the other half split up among 30 smaller growers. You've likely guessed that Clos Marfisi is part of the latter, and you are correct! Brother and sister, Mathieu and Julie are fifth generation at the helm of the Marfisi estate, having taken over from their father, Touissant.
Clos Marfisi’s vineyards (which Touissant planted about 40-50 years ago) rise up from the Mediterranean with southern and western exposures on steep slopes that are practically white with large chunks of broken up limestone. Seriously impressive. Equally impressive is the fact that they never gave into outside pressure and the entirety of the estate is planted to local varieties, so you won’t find any Grenache here. The bulk of the acreage is planted with local red grape variety Niellucciu and Vermentino.
Flavor-wise, the common thread is a certain earthyness to the wines. Very much in the way Nebbiolo from Piedmont carries a 'mushroomy' character, Corsican reds also show something to that effect, but perhaps these mushrooms were sautéed with thyme/marjoram/rosemary lending an aromatic herbaceous note. In appearance they also have Nebbiolo-ey vibe, with brownish red color, never too extracted.
The Marfisis truly celebrate their heritage through their work, and their wines are the record of generations dedicated to the land and the craft of winemaking. Their commitment to organics continues and this year's harvest is entirely certified organic. Native yeasts have always been used for fermentations, and sulfur additions are kept to a bare minimum. Limited quantities available.
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