Abbatucci "Cuvée Faustine," Rouge - 2022

Jean-Charles Abbatucci is quite the character. Whether he is joining a casual tasting, or is part of an elaborate dinner in one of New York City's top restaurants, he is guaranteed to be the life of the party. After telling me that his favorite thing to do back home in Corsica is to drive his tractor out into the vineyard and play classic Corsican music over the vines, I was intrigued. One of Abbatucci's claims to fame is that he uses many heirloom grape varieties. The Cuvée Faustine, named after his daughter (awww), is made up of mostly Sciacarello (aka Sangiovese) and Nielluccio. In the glass, the wine is a transparent ruby color with gem-like brilliance. Aromas of both red and black fruits greet you. With low tannin, no oak, and bright acidity, this wine is very approachable with or without food.