As its name suggests, this vineyard is located in south-western France, between the Massif Central and the Pyrenees, and covers 11 départements (Aveyron, Dordogne, Gers, Haute-Garonne, Hautes- Pyrénées, Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, Tarn, Tarn-et-Garonne, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Landes). The AOC Marcillac area stretches between Rodez and Conques in the Vallée de l'Ady, covering some 185 hectares of mainly limestone soils. Vines of mansion, merlot, cabernet-franc and cabernet-sauvignon, among others, are planted in this appellation, subject to the semi-mountainous climate and Mediterranean influences of this geographical area, and are used to produce rosé and red wines. Both share their fruitiness and notes of red fruits (raspberry, blueberry, blackcurrant) and spices, but the reds are more powerful and rustic, their character expressing the tannins that structure them.
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AOC Marcillac: Everything You Need to Know About This Appellation
History of the AOC Marcillac
Located in southwestern France, the AOC Marcillac boasts a viticultural tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Its reputation has gradually been built around its unique red and rosé wines. Generations of passionate winemakers have harnessed the potential of this distinctive terroir, characterized by iron-rich red soils known as "rougiers," and its flagship grape variety: Fer-Servadou.
Climate and Terroir of the AOC Marcillac
- Climate: The appellation enjoys a temperate climate with continental influences, featuring hot summers and harsh winters.
- Sols: Marcillac's soils are primarily composed of red sandstone rich in iron oxides, known as "rougiers," which impart a distinctive typicity and characteristic color to the wines.
The Fer-Servadou and Other Notable Grapes of the AOC Marcillac
The primary grape variety (90%) in the AOC Marcillac is Fer-Servadou, locally known as Mansois. This unique grape offers wines with a lot of personality and a beautiful fruity and spicy expression. Fer-Servadou can also be blended with other red grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet-Sauvignon, Cabernet-Franc, or Prunelard.
Style of AOC Marcillac Wines
Red Wine:
- Appearance: Dark red, almost black.
- Aroma: Dominated by notes of fresh red fruits, plum, and pepper, with a distinctive earthy touch.
- Palate: The wines display a beautiful tannic structure and liveliness, with a moderate alcohol level.
Rosé Wine:
- Appearance: Varies from salmon pink to light purple.
- Aroma: Delicate scents of red fruits, flowers, and sometimes sweet spices.
- Palate: Refreshing and balanced, with a pleasant acidity that makes them thirst-quenching wines.
Best Food Pairings with AOC Marcillac Wines
To make the most of a bottle of wine from an AOC Marcillac estate or château, consider these food pairing recommendations:
Red Wine:
- Charcuterie board
- Aligot with sausages
- Grilled lamb chops
Rosé Wine:
- Aperitif
- Piperade with chorizo
- Mixed salad