Domaine Comte Abbatucci Alte Rosso Blanc 2016

Profile & Story

Alte Rosso is one of Domaine Comte Abbatucci's Parcellaires - single-parcel wines from the estate's certified-biodynamic vineyards in Corsica's Taravo Valley (Ajaccio, Corse-du-Sud), each showcasing a distinct terroir and rare grape variety. It is made from 100% Barbarossa, a rare pink-skinned indigenous Corsican variety that Jean-Charles Abbatucci vinifies entirely without skin contact - so despite its name and pink skins, the result is a dry white wine. Grown on granitic sands, the grapes are direct-pressed at harvest; alcoholic fermentation takes place in a 12-hectoliter Stockinger barrel, with malolactic fermentation deliberately blocked by cold and SO2. The wine ages on its lees under oak for 12 months, then a further 3 months in stainless steel after the best lots are blended, followed by a minimum 3-6 months of bottle age before release. Alcohol approximately 12.5%.

Pairing Recommendation

Open one hour before serving, at 14-16°C in a decanter. Ideal with chicken liver with lemon and coriander, or a white tuna steak with red peppers and garlic mashed potatoes.