Sciaccarellu Grape variety guide: history, French regions, taste & food pairing
Sciaccarellu (Sciaccarello) is Corsica's most distinctive red grape, crafting pale, perfumed, peppery reds and rosés that capture the island's wild maquis and granite soils.
Learn more about Sciaccarellu
History & origins
Long considered native to Corsica, Sciaccarellu has been shown by DNA to be identical to Mammolo, an old Tuscan variety, reflecting centuries of exchange between Corsica and Italy. Its Corsican name is often said to mean "the grape that crunches," a nod to its crisp, firm berries. It thrives on the granite hills of southern Corsica, especially around Ajaccio, where it reaches its finest expression.
French regions & appellations
Ajaccio AOC (its heartland), Vin de Corse Sartène, Vin de Corse Calvi, Vin de Corse Porto-Vecchio and IGP Île de Beauté.
Taste profile
Light to medium body and pale color, with red cherry, wild strawberry, raspberry, black pepper, Mediterranean herbs and a smoky, mineral finish.
Food pairing
Corsican charcuterie such as figatellu, lonzu and coppa, grilled fish, roast lamb, veal with olives, pizza and sheep's milk cheeses.
Where Sciaccarellu grows in France
Wine regions: Corsica
Appellations: IGP Île de Beauté, Patrimonio