L.N. Mattei Cap Corse Blanc Quinquina

L.N. Mattei Cap Corse Blanc Quinquina is a bright, bittersweet aperitif originating from the rugged and windswept tip of Corsica. Created in 1872 by Louis‑Napoléon Mattei, this Blanc Quinquina blends local wine traditions with exotic botanicals. Its base is mistelle made from Vermentino and Muscat Petit‑Grains grapes, which gives it a floral sweetness and crisp minerality. The wine is aromatized with macerations of cinchona bark (quinine), cedrat (a thick‑skinned citrus fruit), and a mixture of herbs and spices. The result is elegant, aromatic, and complex — floral and fruity notes upfront, followed by a tonic bitterness in the mid‑palate.

Nose: Fragrant honeysuckle, white blossoms, citrus peel (especially cedrat), with herbal undertones and a touch of quinine.

Palate: Sweet and floral at first with flavors of ripe melon, citrus (lemon and cedrat), herbs, then the quinine bitterness builds—balanced by the grape mistelle base and light acidity from Vermentino.

Finish: Bittersweet and lingering, with herbal bitterness, citrus zest, and a mild dry edge.

Fresh Seafood: Think oysters, sashimi, or ceviche—those fresh clean flavors partner well with the herbal and citrus profile.

Light Salads & Greens: Salads dressed with lemon vinaigrette, herbs, goat cheese, or feta.

Soft Cheeses & Tapas: Mild chèvre, burrata, or fresh mozzarella, accompanied by olives or marinated vegetables.

Citrus‑oriented Desserts: Like a lemon tart, citrus panna cotta, or even candied citrus peel, which echo the aperitif’s own citrus notes.