Francois Labet Ile de Beaute Pinot Noir 2022

Located along a fault line that separates Southern Corsica and Upper Corsica, the vineyard is flush with both soil schist and granite in addition to the 35 acres of metamorphic rocky foothills. But here is where the magician truly goes to work. He’s able to replicate the high-acid, low-alcohol Pinots of Burgundy by leaning on the island’s unique conditions. With an abundance of sunshine and temperatures kept cool by the sea breeze and the extreme altitude 1800 feet, the Pinots that Francois Labet makes under his own label in Corsica are always around 12.5% alc.

Labet fully destems the fruit and then ages it, two-thirds in stainless steel and one-third in French oak, before bottling. That helps it become highly well-balanced and approachable in its youth, with some spice and blue and red fruits as well as earthy and rocky notes. On top of the ripe core of fruit, there’s some Mediterranean herbs and a hint of anise and French oak spice. The bright, clean finish reflects the wine’s rocky, high-country terroir with juicy, silky tannins and a snap of tangy acidity that packs a punch.

And the best part, of course, is that this delicious wine is super affordable to the consumer. While most of Labet’s Burgundian wines will run you three figures, his ‘Ile de Beaute’ Pinot Noir can be had for less than $25/bottle.