Domaine Vico, `Le Bois du Cerf` Rouge

Domaine Vico is one of Corsica’s most characterful inland estates, farming vineyards far from the island’s coastal bustle. Founded in 1901 by Jean Vico and revived in the 1980s by Jean‑Marc Venturi and François Acquaviva, the domaine has become a benchmark for modern Corsican wine thanks to decades of careful rebuilding, organic and biodynamic farming, and a focus on native grapes. The vineyards sit at around 300 metres in the foothills of the mountains, on a patchwork of schist, sandstone and volcanic soils. This inland position brings warm Mediterranean days but cool nights and regular north‑westerly winds, giving the wines a natural freshness and a distinct mineral edge. Le Bois du Cerf Rouge is a vivid expression of this landscape, blending equal parts Niellucciu and Sciaccarellu from 30‑year‑old vines rooted in schist and basalt. The grapes are destemmed and fermented with indigenous yeasts before a long maceration and ageing in concrete, a gentle approach that preserves purity while adding depth. The result is a bright, aromatic Corsican red with red‑cherry fruit, hints of spice, rosemary and dried rose, and a juicy, supple palate supported by fine, dusty tannins.