L.N. Mattei Cap Corse Blanc Grande Réserve is a Corsican quinquina aperitif, intense in cinchona and fragrant with local citron, made in Bastia and bottled at 17% ABV.
The brand dates to 1872, when merchant Louis-Napoléon Mattei named his aperitif wine after his native Cap Corse, the northern peninsula of Corsica. The Grande Réserve is a tribute to the 1920s, when this cinchona-rich aperitif was very fashionable and an integral part of many cocktails, and it was developed more simply for mixology.
The aperitif starts from a mistelle base of Vermentinu and Muscat Petits Grains grapes. Cinchona bark supplies its bitterness, and the local cédrat, or citron, adds a unique citrus aroma and a silky texture.
Expect fresh, floral aromas with bright citrus peel, a citrusy palate with a gradually increasing quinquina bitterness on the back, and a clean, gently bitter finish.
Cap Corse Blanc is superb served on ice with tonic water and a slice of orange or lemon, or as a substitute for dry vermouth in a Martini. It makes a refreshing spritz with sparkling wine and soda, and a classic quinquina tonic. Try it in a Vesper or a Corpse Reviver No. 2. Pair it with olives, charcuterie, fresh cheeses, oysters and Mediterranean small plates. Keep the bottle refrigerated after opening. For lovers of aperitifs and classic cocktails, it is a characterful bottle and an elegant gift.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Floral, bright citrus peel.
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Palate: Citrusy, rising quinquina bitterness.
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Finish: Clean and gently bitter.
Specifications
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Producer: L.N. Mattei, Bastia, Corsica, France (since 1872)
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Base: Mistelle of Vermentinu and Muscat Petits Grains
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Botanicals: Cinchona and Corsican citron
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ABV: 17%
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Serve it on ice with tonic, or use it in place of vermouth in a Martini.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is quinquina?
An aperitif wine bittered with cinchona bark.
Where is it made?
In Bastia, Corsica.
How should I serve it?
On ice with tonic, in a spritz, or in a Martini.
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