Patrimonio Blanc, Clos Alivu 2021

Between Linguizetta and Bravone on Corsica’s eastern shore you will find the estate of brothers Eric and Antoine Poli at Domaine du Piana. Altogether they own just under 30 hectares of land but the separate project of Clos Alivu comes from only 3 hectares of vines purchased by Eric in 2005 because of its 50-year-old vines on the limestone, clay and schist terrace of Poggio d’Oletta, a part of the Patrimonio appellation that is arguably the best AC on the island.

Two varieties are planted, vermentino for white wines and nielluccio (aka sangiovese) for reds, both of which are typical of the region. Sustainable agricultural practices are followed here though they have not sought organic certification because conditions make it a very natural form of viticulture in a place where fungal or insect pests do not often threaten, and the maritime influence is a boon, helping to keep acidity in the grapes.

Low yields are sought and harvesting is all done by hand. The reds spend some time in vats for a year rather than barrel, the rosé is made from free run juice and like the white, which also sees no oak, does not go through malolactic fermentation to maintain freshness in the wines.