Other
Philippe Farinelli
Winemaker
- Discipline
- Other
i. Biography
Philippe Farinelli’s work at Domaine Saparale is built on return, restraint, and long attention to site. He bought and revived the estate in 1995, and has been the owner, winemaker and oenologist of Domaine Saparale since 1998. In the Ortolo Valley near Sartène, the vineyard is managed to limit chemical products strongly, forbid fertilizers, carry out green harvest, and plough the vines several times a year. The wines that come off that system are described as fine and racy.
The Path
The revival of Domaine Saparale in 1995 sits at the center of Philippe Farinelli’s work. It is an estate-based practice, not a break from it: a return to the discipline of the place in Sartène, where the vineyard is read season by season and slope by slope. The method is plain. Intervene less, observe more, and let the estate’s own pace set the terms.
The Work Today
Today, Philippe Farinelli continues as owner of Domaine Saparale in Sartène, focusing on Corsican wines. The farming remains tightly controlled: chemical products are limited strongly, fertilizers are forbidden, green harvest is carried out, and the vines are ploughed several times a year. That same restraint carries through to the wines, which aim for clarity and freshness rather than weight. Domaine Saparale Blanc 2025 is a dry Corsican white made from 100% Vermentino, with subtle Maquis herb and wild flower scents and a citrus-edged palate.
Signature
Philippe's signature dishes include Domaine Saparale Blanc 2025, Cuvée Saparale, Cuvée Casteddu, Cuvée Natura, and Oenoteca. Taken together, they show the estate’s range while staying within the same disciplined style.
In Their Words “I am the owner, winemaker and oenologist of Domaine Saparale since 1998.”
Acclaim
In 2023, he became Certified Bio by AB / EUROFEUILLE. He also holds HVE, which sits in line with the same farming discipline that defines the domaine.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Philippe
What is Philippe Farinelli's current role?
As of 2026, Philippe Farinelli is Owner, Winemaker, and Oenologist.
What is Philippe Farinelli known for?
Corsican wines.
What recognition has Philippe Farinelli received?
Certified Bio by AB / EUROFEUILLE (2023).
