Antoine Arena's mission has been to make the best his land can offer. He started identifying the best parcels and vinifying them separately long before this was so important in Corsica.  He has always worked the vines organically and vinifies without additional sulfur. The vineyard 'Grotte de Sole', as the name implies, is a southerly exposed site that captures the sun's rays at its fullest throughout most of the day.  Grotte de Sole is on of Antoine's favorite vineyard sites.

In 2014, however, in true independent Corsican spirit, Antoine split his holdings equally with his two sons.  This 2013 is the last vintage Antoine made from this vineyard.   

Upon opening the wine is garnet with an orange rim, quite similar to that of Nebbiolo.  Reserved upon opening, the wine eventually lends aromas of dried leaves and roses & stewed red fruits, and a salty chalky element.  Once again, more characteristic to that of Nebbiolo than Sangiovese.  The palate is lifted, a spritely dose of acidity awakens the taste buds.  The fruit remains subtle, again reminding me of Nebbiolo but more like Nebbiolo from Ghemme or Gattinara.   The fruit is subtle but cherry driven, with notes of orange peel and dried flowers.  This is a thoughtful wine, one that requires some coaxing and a bit of air.

Grape: Nielluccio, Planted in 1987, 1 ha (Nielluccio is actually Sangiovese)

Soil: Chalk, clay, limestone

Viticulture: Organic