2023 Château de Ségure Fitou

Fitou is one of those regions that has always stuck with me. Many years ago, while visiting some of the cru appellations of the Languedoc, I was able to spend some time with a couple of producers there. It’s the only time I’ve had a chance to visit Fitou, but that landscape left a lasting impression. I was particularly taken with the soils—and those of you who know me know that I needed to add a few samples for my rock collection. Driving through the region, I actually pulled the car over a few times just to look at the incredible stratification of schist exposed along the roadside. And maybe grab a few rocks along the way... That schist is an important part of the character of the inland vineyards of Fitou. Carignan is the signature grape here, and it does really well in schist. It is generally joined by Grenache and Syrah, and together they produce wines with plenty of dark fruit, spice and a distinctly Mediterranean savory personality. Fitou is a rugged, somewhat remote part of the Languedoc and it very much feels well off the beaten path. Château de Ségure has an especially interesting history. Perched above the village of Tuchan, the château dates back to the 11th century and was once connected to the Cistercian Abbey of Fontfroide, with wine produced for the monastery. Today their vineyards encompass schist, limestone and clay soils, with the Fitou centered around Carignan, Grenache and Syrah. It’s exactly the kind of property that makes this region so compelling—distinctive terroir, plenty of history and wines that can still offer tremendous value. This vintage is a blend of 40% Carignan, 40% Grenache and 20% Syrah. The wine opens with notes of blackberry, toasted herbs, roasted fig and grilled meat. That savory edge gives the wine plenty of personality and firmly plants you in the Mediterranean. The fruit is ripe but never sweet, with layers of spice and supple tannins carrying through the finish. This is another great addition to my weeknight rotation and should appeal to fans of Spanish reds, Côtes du Rhône and the rustic, savory reds of southern Italy.