Wine for sale: Clos Canarelli
Clos Canarelli
Clos Canarelli is one of Corsica’s most emblematic and dynamic domains. Certified organic in 2002 and biodynamic in 2006, it is known for its use of old, native grape varieties and vines that date back to before the phylloxera crisis, as well as for its masterful vinification carried out, in part, in amphorae.
Yves Canarelli has turned this family property into one of Corsica’s most iconic estates. The 38-hectare vineyard lies south of the Figari appellation, one of France’s sunniest winemaking regions. There, the wind and nearby mountains help produce wines of great finesse and balance (despite their richness!).
At the estate, all wines are produced according to biodynamic principles. All work in the vineyard and harvesting is carried out by hand and no weedkillers, synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilisers are used. And it doesn’t stop there as Yves Canarelli - who took over his father’s 10 hectare - is on a mission to reintroduce local varieties, the white being Bianco Gentile and the reds Carcaghjolu Neru and Minustellu. Since 2016, the estate has invested in and replanted a plot of five hectares on the Bonifacio plateau.
Clos Canarelli produces two wines that are not to be missed: Terra d'Orazi, a red wine from non-grafted vines that date back to before the phylloxera crisis, and Amphora, a wine vinified in clay amphorae. White wines as well as rosés and reds are enjoyed for their openness and energy. Harmony, minerality and pronounced flavours are also reasons to try these wines. To take the words of French wine guide Bettane & Desseauve, “for the moment, there is now rival for this estate in Corsica.” A producer to follow very closely.
Read our article on Clos Canarelli
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY...
BETTANE & DESSEAUVE
For the moment, there are no other domains in Corsica that can compete with Canarelli, considering the mineral tension we don’t often find in Figari. An exceptional level of viticulture and vinification is confirmed in the elite cuvées made by Yves Canarelli.
LA REVUE DU VIN DE FRANCE
The energetic Yves Canarelli has established himself as a truly great winemaker of the Figari area in southern Corsica. [...] This domain is writing a beautiful new chapter in the history of Corsican viticulture and it is writing it with enthusiasm and determination.