Jean-Charles Abbatucci is a prominent personality in Ajaccio, with a family history dating back to the French Revolution. His name is visible on various landmarks, street corners, and wine bars in the capital city. Jean-Charles is a passionate supporter of Corsican culture and advocates for biodynamic viticulture. Hence, he is renowned for producing exceptional wines on this remote and rugged island.

During my visit in March 2023 with Jean-Charles, I had the pleasure of trying the 2021 Valle di Mare. What sets this wine apart is the unique addition of seawater that Jean-Charles has been experimenting with. He treated specific plots of vines with a seawater tincture to maintain their health and combat disease pressure. I was able to compare the taste of wines from treated and untreated plots, and can confirm that the treated plots had a more concentrated flavor and vibrant energy.

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I cannot deny that Valle di Mare comes with a substantial price tag. Valle di Mare is undoubtedly an investment, a sophisticated wine at the very least requiring time in bottle, and one of Jean-Charle's most cherished wines & projects. You should consider this wine the equivalent to a Grand Cru plot in Burgundy. Valle di Mare is a wine made entirely from Carcajolo Nero, which is not commonly used on its own. On the initial cork pull, deep purple fruits, maquis, and a touch of sea spray waft from the glass. The palate is wound up delivering more primary flavors of dark purple fruits, lavender, grape, figs, and plum. The tannins are present but not overpowering, sort of like the outside of a ripe plum, lightly fuzzy. There is a persistent lingering finish built of acidity, salinity, and flavors of fig and plum. If you have a strong affinity for the wild and untamed spirit of Corsica, then this particular wine is a true gem that deserves a place in your collection. With time and patience, you will be able to savor its full potential and enjoy an even more refined taste in the years to come.  - Kimberly

Grape: 100% Carcajolo Nero, in a plot with vines monitored with seawater since 2016

Viticulture: Biodynamic