A symbol of Corsica since the 12th century, it was the Pisans who introduced this grape to the island. In fact, the variety has adapted wonderfully to the region, becoming, over time, an essential part of Corsican viticulture.
Widely grown within the Patrimonio appellation, covering nearly 500 hectares, this variety produces powerful, tannic wines with a deep red color. Genetically related to Sangiovese, a cornerstone of Chianti in Italy, it is a grape variety made for aging.
Its name in Corsican means “little black,” and it accounts for 35% of the island’s vineyards. It is distinguished by notes of spices, black fruits (blackcurrant and blackberry) and red fruits (raspberry, strawberry), dry notes (hazelnut and toasted almond), woodsy, smoky (coffee, cocoa), and even balsamic (mint, licorice) notes.
Wines made from this grape variety are characterized by excellent balance and great finesse. Across the entire island, Niellucciu accounts for no less than 1,552 hectares!