Yves Canarelli has turned this family property into one of Corsica's most dynamic estates. It consists of 38 hectares spread out over the Figari appellation, one of France's sunniest winemaking regions. There, the wind and the proximity to the mountains, however, allow the vines to produce chiselled and balanced wines (despite their richness).
At the estate, all wines are produced according to biodynamic principles, 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

Clos Canarelli spans 38 hecatres on Corsica’s south coast. This rosé from Yves Canarelli blends the native Corsican varieties of Sciacarellu, Niellucciu and Grenache. These certified organic and biodynamic vines reap rewards from their hot, windy terroir with clay-granite soil and a south and northwest facing aspect. Grapes undergo a direct pressing and are fermented with a strain of yeast selected by the domaine before maturation in stainless steel vats. The resulting wine has a pale salmon-pink colour and an elegant nose exuding floral, fruity notes with a hint of spice. It is well-balanced in the mouth offering lots of fruit on the finish. This wine would pair well with charcuterie or alongside a barbecue and salads.