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Figari wine region is the southernmost wine district in France and also one of the oldest wine regions. The region produces excellent wines which are labeled under the Vin de Corse appellation. Rose wines dominate the area with more than 50% of total wine production. The region also produces red wines and a small number of white wines. It has been attested that the vines were planted in this region during the 5th century BC. The vineyard encompasses the municipalities of Figari, Monacia-d'Aullène, and Pianottoli-Caldarello. Figari was granted the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) classification in 1976, which was later updated on March 25, 1991. Apart from the wine experience, the region is an ideal place for a holiday. 

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Where is the Figari wine region?

The Figari wine area is located on the southernmost tip of the French island of Corsica. Communities in the region are located on the island's southern tip, between the communes of Monacia d'Aullene and Sartene. Figari is one of Corsica's five most important wine-growing areas. Vineyards can be found on the plains between the summit of Punta d'Ovace in the west and the low slopes above Figari. In comparison to other wine regions in Corsica, the topography is quite flat. The region is 43km southeast of Sartene, 20km southwest of Porto Vecchio, and 19km north of Bonifacio. 

History of the Figari wine region

Figari is France's oldest wine-growing region, with viticulture dating back to the 5th century BC. These old plots can still be seen on the plains between Sotta and Figari today. There are other signs of human civilization, such as gravestones and burial vaults. Figari, like many other parts of Corsica, was regularly conquered during the Middle Ages. The Genovese tower, San Quillico Di Montilati chapel, and Saint Jean-Baptiste Church in Pruno are also major Figari historical sites.

The terroir and geography of the Figari wine region

In comparison to other Corsican wine regions, the landscape of the Figari wine region is quite flat. The wine region stretches from the western foothills of the Punta d'Ovace peak to the plains near the ocean. The lowlands of the Figari area are rich and ideal for wine planting. The vineyard stretches across the Figari half-alluvial, half-decomposed granite plain, which is rich in limestone and sands. The wind blows in through the Gulf of Figari and across this dry, hot soil suited for red wine varietals.

Popular grape varieties from the Figari wine region

Grenache, Nielluccio, and Sciaccarello are the main grape varietals grown in the Figari wine region, and they are used to make rose and red wines. Corsican types such as Aleatico, Barbarossa, Carcajolo Nero, and Minustello (Graciano) are also grown. Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Carignan are grape varieties from southern France that were transported to the island. White wines are mostly made from Vermentino, with some Biancu Gentile and Ugni Blanc thrown in for good measure.

Food to pair with Figari wine 

Grilled chicken

Grilled chicken is one of the most popular and loved dishes in the world. It is also a very versatile dish that can be served with rice, salads, vegetables, and other ingredients. The use of grilled chicken has been seen in many different cultures all over the world. In some parts of Europe, it is used as a substitute for beef or pork. In countries such as India, it is often served at parties to celebrate an occasion. Grilled chicken can be cooked on a charcoal grill or on a gas grill with moderate heat. It can also be roasted in an oven at 350F for about 45 minutes or until the meat reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grilled Veggies

Grilling vegetables is one of the best ways to cook them, as it brings out their natural flavors. Grilled veggies are a healthy and delicious side dish for any meal. They are so versatile, too! You can grill them up with almost any seasoning, or just use salt and pepper. They provide vitamins like A and C as well as iron, potassium, magnesium, and more. Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness while also making them tender on the inside - perfect for eating! If you don't have a grill, you can also use a cast iron skillet on your stovetop. Serve it with Grenache-based wines from the Figari wine region. 

Barbecued Beef

Beef barbecue is a popular dish in many nations. Barbecued beef is a dish made from beef that has been marinated before being grilled and served. Side dishes like onion rings, potato salad, corn on the cob, and barbecue sauce can be served with the entrée. In the United States, barbecued beef is a popular dish. Barbecued beef is not only delicious, but it also provides several necessary nutrients such as protein, zinc, and iron. It is also lower in fat than other varieties of meat. A barbeque grill is the greatest technique to cook grilled beef.

Places to visit in the Figari wine region

Chapelle San Quilico de Montilati

Chapelle San Quilico de Montilati is a historic church situated near Castle casteddu di Conti pazzu in Southern Corsica. The church is dedicated to saint Andrea and was founded in the 12th century. It is believed that the church was owned by Orso la Mano, a local lord, who provided the chapel to the monastery. The church has a semi-circular vault which is lit by a murderous window with is very rare in Corsica. This romanesque church is only 7.5 meters long and 3 meters wide. 

Caldarello

Caldarello is one of many Genovese towers in the church which is located in southern Corsica. 

The tower was built at the end of the 16th century as a part of the development policy for coral fishing on the southwest coastal line. The tower also served as an advanced post for the citadel of Bonifacio during the 18th century. Built entirely from granite, the tower is fortified on the southern side for defense. The internal space is split into two levels. The chimney and a cistern are located on the first floor. The second storey is reached through a ladder. A sentry box guards the egress against the stairs. A covered gatehouse is located to its left.

Check out the best wineries in Figari!

Frequently asked questions about Figari

Where is the Figari wine region located?

The Figari wine region is located on the French island of Corsica's southernmost edge. The region's communities are found on the island's southern point, between the communes of Monacia d'Aullene and Sartene. Figari is one of Corsica's top five wine-growing regions. Vineyards can be found on the plains between Punta d'Ovace in the west and the low hills above Figari in the east. The geography is quite flat compared to other wine districts in Corsica. The region is 43 kilometers southeast of Sartene, 20 kilometers southwest of Porto Vecchio, and 19 kilometers north of Bonifacio.

What are some of the best Figari wines that people should try?

Clos Canarelli Corse Figari Rouge, Corsica, France
Domaine de Tanella Cuvee Alexandra Prestige Rouge, Corse Figari, France
Jean Ferracci Clos de Sarcone Blanc, Corse Figari, France

What are the different kinds of grapes that grow in the Figari appellation?

The principal grape varietals planted in the Figari wine region are Grenache, Nielluccio, and Sciaccarello, which are used to make rose and red wines. Corsican varieties include Aleatico, Barbarossa, Carcajolo Nero, and Minustello (Graciano). Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Carignan are grape varieties brought to the island from southern France. Vermentino is the most common grape used to make white wines, with some Biancu Gentile Blanc, Codivarta Blanc, Genovese Blanc, and Ugni Blanc thrown in for good measure.

What kind of wine is a Figari?

Figari wine comes in different styles and is especially known for its red wines characterized by a robust structure with great finesse. The wines from Figari are among the best of Corsica as the terroir here is exceptional.

Map of Wineries in Figari

Discover the locations of wineries in Figari