Corsica's oldest and most prestigious AOC on the Cap Corse peninsula; schist and clay-limestone soils; Nielluccio (Sangiovese's Corsican relative) produces structured reds with Mediterranean herbs and maquis character. Vermentino whites show mineral elegance from schist soils. Antoine Arena and Domaine Leccia make wines of extraordinary individuality that reflect the island's wild character. The appellation covers only 450 hectares.
| Year | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | — | Typical Mediterranean year; Nielluccio well-ripened with firm tannins; Vermentino shows aromatic intensity |
| 2021 | — | Excellent balance; Nielluccio achieved phenolic ripeness; whites show great mineral precision |
| 2020 | — | Hot summer moderated by sea breezes; ripe generous reds; good structured wines for aging |
| 2019 | — | Classic expression; Nielluccio's grippy tannins balanced by ripe fruit; Vermentino at its mineral best |
| 2018 | — | Variable vintage; careful selection essential; some fine wines from best parcels on the peninsula |
| 2017 | — | Good conditions; Arena's biodynamic farming showed resilience; Patrimonio wines showing typical island individuality |
| 2016 | — | Superb Patrimonio vintage; Arena Carco Rouge considered one of the greatest Corsican red wines produced |