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Fer Servadou (also known as Mansois, Braucol, or Pinenc) is a historical and highly unique red grape variety from the Southwest region of France. It produces expressive, medium-bodied red wines that surprise with firm tannins and bright aromas of blackcurrants, raspberries, iron, and spices. It is an authentic reflection of the rustic French style.
Read moreThis variety is very closely tied to different regions (appellations) in Southwest France, where it is called by different names and adapted to different styles.
If you want to taste a pure (100%) wine of this variety, look for a label with the Marcillac AOC appellation (there it is called Mansois). These wines will be lighter and very fruity. In the Gaillac AOC region, this grape is called Braucol and is usually blended with Duras or Syrah, adding black fruit aromas and pepper notes to the wine. In the Madiran AOC region (where it is called Pinenc), Fer Servadou is used in blends with the powerful Tannat variety to soften its tannins and add a raspberry scent.
Due to its savoriness and firm tannins, Fer Servadou is a perfect companion to regional meats. It pairs fantastically with traditional rustic French dishes: duck confit, sausages, beef stews with mushrooms, and hard cheeses.
Southwest France was historically very fragmented linguistically and culturally (using various Occitan dialects). Because this grape grew in the region for centuries, each village or valley came up with its own local name for it. The official botanical name is Fer Servadou, but on labels, you will most often see the local appellation name (Mansois, Braucol, Pinenc).
The French word "Fer" means iron. Legend has it that the name originated because the vine itself is very hard (like iron) and difficult to prune. However, many wine experts actually smell and taste a very specific minerality in the wines of this variety, reminiscent of blood or iron, which intertwines with the dark berry aromas.
