Have you ever hear of the Marcillac wine region? It’s in southwest France near the city of Rodez. The most important red grape in this region is Fer Servadou, also known as Fer, Pinenc and Mansois. It makes up 90 percent of the grapes grown here. According to Wikipedia, “Fer is French for iron, a reference to the very hard and iron-like wood of the vine’s above ground canopy.”
I discovered this wine from my favorite Portland wine vendor, Cherries and Figs. Thank you, Norman, for the great discovery.
About Fer Servadou
According to Wine-Searcher, “The rustic red wines made from Fer (as it is most often refered to) tend to be medium-bodied but with firm tannins, displaying flavors of redcurrant, fig and some peppery overtones. This has proved to be pleasing to the modern palate, and plantings of Fer, while still diminutive, are on the rise. The variety thrives on the stony, iron-rich hills surrounding the town of Marcillac. This is by far the grape’s most important appellation – Fer must make up at least 90 percent of the blend, although small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Prunelard are permitted.”
The grape is thought to have made its way into southwest France from Spain’s Basque country, although it has been planted in Marcillac for hundreds of years.
About the Laurens Marcillac Pierres Rouges Wine
WineEnthusiast tells us that the winery was established in 1975 on the steep slopes of Clairvaux in the heart of the Marcillac appellation. The wine has “a delightful colour with ruby highlights. The wine is very fruity with smooth tannins in evidence. Very characteristic of Marcillac.” It’s a cool-climate wine, with “racy acidity. The wine’s light tannins are just right to support the bright fruits.”
The wine not surprisingly is low in alcohol, at 12.0%.
Have you tried Fer Servadou? I would love to hear your experience with this grape.
