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Sartène is a sub-region and a vital part of the Vin de Corse wine-growing region in the Corse-de-Sud district of the island of Corsica, France. The region is covered with hills and valleys, creating a patchwork of unique climate, different from other Corsican regions, making Sartène ideal for viticulture practices. Proximity to Italy influences the winemaking traditions and creates the perfect synergy between these two countries, which makes the Sartène wine unique and remarkable, unable to find a similar taste elsewhere. Corse Sartène wines can be red, rosé, and white, produced from various grapes; numerous wine connoisseurs appreciate their primer quality.

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Where is the Sartène wine appellation located?

Sartène is located in the south of the Corsica wine region – a separate island belonging to France. The main town is of the same name, Sartène. Neighboring wine sub-regions are Porto-Vecchio, Figari, Calvi, and Cap Corse. Sartène is where one of the Corsican dialects originates, also shared in part by northern Sardinia.

The history of the Sartène wine region

One of the most significant incidents in the history of Sartène was an attack by Algerian pirates in 1583, which left 400 people captive. This attack is only one example of pirate attacks that had dotted The region’s past until the 18th century, when Corsica finally came under French jurisdiction and control in 1769. And it was precisely in the 18th century when the Sartène wine region began cultivating vines. Algeria first became independent of France in the 1950s, after which a significant flow of immigrants from Algeria settled on Corsica and planted vines around Sartène. This fact also contributed to the increased number of vineyards in the whole wine region of Corsica.

Sartène wine appellation terroir

Corsica’s central mountain range starts east of Sartène and stretches to the island’s northwest corner. Numerous valleys between the foothills around Sartène create various habitats, all with their unique mesoclimates, from which the viticulture largely benefits, ensuring the diversity of grapes. Generally, the climate in this area is Mediterranean. The place is quite windy; the most frequent one is the Libeccio winds from Gibraltar, declining the risk of mildew and bringing rains to the west coast of Sartène; Nevertheless, overall, the island is drier and warmer than the mainland of France. The grapes are therefore trained in a sturdy goblet style for harbouring in the granite soil. As for altitude, the vineyards sit at 300 meters above sea level.

Sartène wine characteristics

The wines of Sartène are subtle, robust, and powerful. Although the main focus of all the wineries is red and rosé wines, a small number of whites are also produced. Grenache, Sciaccarello, and Nielluccio are the typical grape varieties of the region used to make wines under the AOC status. Also, Corsican native grape varieties such as Barbarossa and Vermentino are sometimes used in production in lesser amounts. Sciaccarello, the primary red grape variety, can be referred to as a Corsican version of Pinot Noir. Vin Corse Sartène reds are rich and full-bodied with berry notes, rosés are fruity and structured, and white wines are floral and light.

Food to pair with Sartène wine

Steak with Béarnaise sauce

Béarnaise sauce is a rich, creamy sauce made of clarified butter, egg yolks, and shallots. The only other ingredients that may be added are tarragon and lemon juice. It is typically served with beef dishes, such as steak tartare or charcoal-grilled entrecôte. It’s generally served at room temperature or warm with a piece of meat to savour it and, of course, a glass of fine red wine.

Sobronade Soup

Sobronade is a traditional French soup made with ham and vegetables. It is traditionally prepared with diced ham, potatoes, white beans, mushrooms, carrots, celery, garlic, and onion. The broth is made with water and bouillon cubes. The ingredients are boiled in the broth for about 10 minutes before adding the potatoes to cook for another 15 minutes. Seasoned with bay leaves and thyme and topped with fresh parsley, this flavourful and delicious yet so simple soup goes exceptionally well with any of the Sartène wines.

Niolo Cheese

Niolo cheese is a type of French cheese from Corsica known for its distinct flavour. It has a rich and nutty taste that comes from using unpasteurized sheep’s milk while producing it, which adds to its flavour. It has washed rinds and a soft, creamy texture. This cheese is excellent to pair with a glass of fine white wine.

Places to visit in the Sartène wine region

Torra di Senetosa

The Tower of Senetosa, or Torra di Senetosa is located in the commune of Sartène. The tower sits at 129 m on the Capu di Senetosa headland. The tower was built in 1610 and is one of a series of coastal defences constructed by the Republic of Genoa in the 16th and 17th centuries to shore up its sea trade routes. In 1992, it was listed as one of France’s official historical monuments. This tower is a great architectural site with amazing views.

Roccapina Beach

Roccapina Beach is situated near the village of Sartène and has a length of about 1.2 km. The beach is famous for its crystal clear turquoise water, white sand, and dramatic cliffs. It has astonishing views, and it’s a trendy spot for tourists from all over the world. This beach looks like paradise and is isolated from the city’s noise and commute. However, there are no facilities at the beach, so make sure you bring your water and snacks if you need them.

Pont de Spina Cavaddu

This bridge over the Rizzanese river is Pisan rather than Genoese in style and dates from the 13th century. It’s one of the oldest bridges on the island, with a height of almost 8 meters and an opening of 14 meters. The construction of the bridge has proved to provide high durability, and there is even a plaque that celebrates the 1993 flooding. The bridge provides easy access to the river for swimming, which will be great during the hotter months.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Sartène wine region

What is the Sartène wine appellation?

Sartène is a sub-region in the wine region of Corsica, France.

What does Sartène wine taste like?

Sartène red wine has a rich taste with berry flavours, rosé is structured with a fruity taste, and white wine is light with floral notes.

Which grapes are used in the Sartène region?

Grenache, Sciaccarello, and Nielluccio are the main grape varieties of the region. Also, Corsican native grape varieties such as Barbarossa and Vermentino are used for producing wine, making it unique.

Map of Wineries in Sartène

Discover the locations of wineries in Sartène