Antoine Arena Morta Maio Blanc Patrimonio AOC

Patrimonio AOC, France

Iconic Vermentino from Patrimonio schist and limestone; Antoine Arena's flagship white. Whole-cluster pressed, indigenous yeasts, no filtration or fining. Intense: citrus blossom, white peach, bitter almond, and the distinctive Corsican maquis herb mineral. Ages magnificently — shows increasing complexity over 5–10 years. One of France's most individual whites.

Pairing intelligence

• starter: The consummate Corsican pairing; Arena's Vermentino and the island's fresh brocciu cheese express the same terroir
• fish course: Mediterranean fish with Corsican Vermentino; the schist mineral and citrus are born for the fragrant red mullet
• main: Regional dish pairing; Morta Maio's almond-citrus character bridges the fresh sheep's cheese and mint filling