Mattei Cap Corse Grand Reserve Quinquina Rouge - 75CL

If you’ve never been to Corsica, well that’s got to change. They don’t call it ‘The Isle of Beauty’ for nothing.  Corsica is the home of the Mattei distillery who take full advantage of this bounteous terroir and generous climate to produce some of the finest drinks the Mediterranean has to offer. Founded in Bastia in 1872 by Louis-Napoleon Mattei, their longevity stands as testament to their quality.  Here people know their food and drink and so-so is a no-no.

Mattei Cap Corse Grand Réserve is a classic Corsican quinquina aperitif with a 17% ABV,75 cl bottle size and it’s seriously delicious.

Tasting Notes

•    Nose: Reveals aromas of flowers and figs, accompanied by subtle touches of fruit preserved in brandy.
•    Palate: Offers a roasted and floral experience, balanced with pleasant hints of candied fruit.
•    Finish: Leaves a delectable and satisfying sensation featuring a slight note of quinine.

Serving and Cocktail Suggestions

•    Neat or On the Rocks: Serve chilled on its own or over ice with an orange or lemon twist.
•    Spritz: Mix with tonic water or soda water over ice for a refreshing long drink.
•    Classic Cocktails: Use as a robust substitute for vermouth in a Negroni, Manhattan, Boulevardier, or Vesper Martini.

Food Pairings

•    Pair with cured meats, artisanal hard cheeses, olives, and salted almonds.
•    Complements light fish starters or citrus-marinated seafood due to its balancing bitterness and acidity.

Distilling Methods

Originally created when Mattei infused local mistelle wine with cinchona bark (quinine) and local cedrat citron, the recipe remains faithful to its roots. The estate remains family-owned, executing all botanical macerations, oak barrel aging, and bottling directly in-house using traditional regional grape varieties like Muscat and Vermentinu.