The Best Pairings for Corsica’s Hidden Gem: Sciaccarelu

Corsica

Sciaccarelu is a red wine grape variety that is primarily grown on the Mediterranean island Corsica, where it is often referred to as “wild Pinot Noir.” This wine is known for its deep ruby color, high acidity, and flavors of dark berries, herbs, and spice. When it comes to pairing food with Sciaccarelu, there are several great options to consider.

One of the best food pairings for Sciaccarelu is grilled meats, and in particluar, steak or lamb. The wine’s high acidity helps to cut through the richness of the meat, while its bold flavors complement the savory, smoky flavors of the grill. Additionally, the wine’s tannins help to balance out the meat’s protein and fat, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Another great food pairing for Sciaccarelu is pasta with tomato-based sauces. The wine’s acidity and fruit-forward flavors make it an excellent match for the acidity of the tomato sauce, while its herbal and spicy notes complement the savory, bready flavors of the pasta. This pairing is especially effective when the pasta is served with rich, meaty sauces such as Bolognese or arrabbiata.

Cheese is also a great pairing for Sciaccarelu, especially aged or hard cheeses such as Parmesan or Pecorino. The wine’s bold flavors and tannins help to balance out the sharpness of the cheese, while its acidity helps to cut through the richness of the dairy. This pairing is perfect for a cheese board or as an appetizer before a meal.

Finally, grilled or roasted vegetables are also an excellent food pairing for Sciaccarelu. The wine’s herbal and spicy notes complement the earthy flavors of vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, while its acidity helps to bring out the sweetness of the vegetables. 

As always you should experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combination and enjoy the rich flavors and aromas of Sicily’s most famous grape variety.