Niellucciu Grape variety guide: history, French regions, taste & food pairing
Niellucciu (Nielluccio) is the leading red grape of northern Corsica and the backbone of Patrimonio, the island's most renowned appellation for structured, age-worthy reds and fragrant rosés.
Learn more about Niellucciu
History & origins
DNA analysis shows that Niellucciu is identical to Sangiovese, the great grape of Tuscany. It was likely brought to Corsica by Genoese or Tuscan settlers several centuries ago and adapted beautifully to the island's limestone and schist soils. Its name is often linked to "niellu," meaning dark or black, a reference to its deep-colored berries.
French regions & appellations
Patrimonio AOC (where reds must be at least 90% Niellucciu), Vin de Corse, Vin de Corse Calvi, Coteaux du Cap Corse, Ajaccio and IGP Île de Beauté.
Taste profile
Medium to full body with firm tannins and fresh acidity, showing red cherry, raspberry, violet, licorice, dried herbs of the maquis and a slightly salty, mineral finish.
Food pairing
Wild boar stew, roast lamb with myrtle, veal with olives, Corsican charcuterie (figatellu, prisuttu), pasta with tomato sauce and aged sheep's cheese.
Where Niellucciu grows in France
Wine regions: Corsica
Appellations: IGP Île de Beauté, Patrimonio