Based in Cognocoli-Monticchi, south of Ajaccio, Domaine de Vaccelli is one of the great signatures of Corsican wine. Led by the Courrèges family, the domaine expresses the granitic slopes of the Taravo valley with intensity, crafting deep, saline and Mediterranean wines from Sciaccarellu, Vermentinu and Corsica’s distinctive native grape varieties.

Domaine de Vaccelli — The great granitic expression of Ajaccio

Located in Cognocoli-Monticchi, south of Ajaccio, in the Taravo valley, Domaine de Vaccelli is one of Corsica’s most sought-after estates. Founded by the Courrèges family in the 1960s, this family domaine has built its reputation on a precise interpretation of granitic soils and native Corsican grape varieties.

Under the guidance of Gérard Courrèges, Vaccelli has developed an ambitious, parcel-driven approach. The wines express a luminous and profound vision of Corsica, combining Mediterranean ripeness, mineral freshness, maquis spice and long saline finishes.

Terroir and native grape varieties

The domaine works granitic slopes shaped by maquis, Mediterranean light and maritime influence. These granitic sandy soils give the wines a clear mineral frame, natural freshness and a distinctive sense of energy.

Sciaccarellu plays a major role in the reds, producing fine, spicy and airy wines. Vermentinu gives rise to saline, luminous and gastronomic whites. Depending on the cuvée, the domaine also works with Niellucciu, Minustellu, Carcaghjolu Neru and Biancu Gentile, always with a strong commitment to Corsican identity.

Viticulture and vinification

Vineyard work is based on controlled yields, hand harvesting and constant attention to grape balance. The domaine seeks full maturity without losing the drive, freshness and mineral vibration that define its finest wines.

In the cellar, vinification remains precise and measured, with ageing adapted to each cuvée. The goal is to preserve fruit clarity, texture and parcel identity, without masking the expression of granite or the singularity of Corsican grape varieties.

Wine style

The reds of Domaine de Vaccelli are defined by aromatic finesse, silky texture and spicy depth. They evoke cherry, raspberry, sweet pepper, maquis herbs, dried flowers and a strong granitic mineral imprint.

The whites combine aromatic brightness, refined texture and saline tension. Citrus, lemon zest, white flowers, white peach, iodised notes and warm stone shape luminous, precise and deeply gastronomic profiles.

Iconic cuvées

Ageing and gastronomic pairings

Domaine de Vaccelli wines have genuine ageing potential, especially the parcel selections. The reds gain spice finesse and aromatic depth over time, while the whites develop more saline, honeyed and mineral nuances.

The reds pair beautifully with herb-roasted lamb, roast veal, Corsican charcuterie, confit aubergines, mushroom dishes and Mediterranean cuisine with measured spice. The whites are ideal with grilled fish, langoustines, shellfish, clams with pasta, roast poultry and fresh cheeses.