Clos Venturi Altare Blanc 2021

Profile & Story

Clos Venturi comprises a 28-hectare vineyard within the Corsican estate of Domaine Vico, planted at 400 metres above sea level on a sandstone hill in Ponte-Leccia, surrounded by forests and mountains. Winemaker Emmanuel (Manu) Venturi and his father Jean-Marc separated this plot from Domaine Vico after identifying the potential of its ancient sandstone soils and sheltered position. The estate is farmed with sheep and chickens for natural fertiliser and weed control, beehives for biodiversity, low yields, and horsepower cultivation to reduce soil compaction. The 'Altare' Blanc is produced in tiny quantities from a small parcel of hand-harvested terraced vines forming a natural amphitheatre, blending five white varieties: Biancu Gentile, Vermentinu, Riminese, Genovese and Carcaghjolu Blanc. Each variety undergoes 48-78 hours of skin maceration before being fermented separately in Stockinger barrels, then aged 12 months on lees in barrel and concrete eggs. ABV 13%.