Domaine Comte Abbatucci ‘Valle di Mare,’ Rouge, Vin de France 2021

Jean-Charles Abbatucci is a prominent personality in Ajaccio, with a family history dating back to the French Revolution. His name is visible on various landmarks, street corners, and wine bars in the capital city. Jean-Charles is a passionate supporter of Corsican culture and advocates for biodynamic viticulture. Hence, he is renowned for producing exceptional wines on this remote and rugged island. During my visit in March 2023 with Jean-Charles, I had the pleasure of trying the 2021 Valle di Mare. What sets this wine apart is the unique addition of seawater that Jean-Charles has been experimenting with. He treated specific plots of vines with a seawater tincture to maintain their health and combat disease pressure. I was able to compare the taste of wines from treated and untreated plots, and can confirm that the treated plots had a more concentrated flavor and vibrant energy. -------- "I cannot deny that Valle di Mare comes with a substantial price tag. Valle di Mare is undoubted