The Vin du Sud Collection Domaine de Courtal Fitou 2013 is part of a 4-pack of 375ml (half bottles) featuring 3 Red wines and 1 White wine from different growing areas inside the Languedoc region of southwest France. The Languedoc is the region where the everyday wines or the more affordable wines are produced. Fitou AOP is a growing region inside the Corbières AOP and is the oldest AOP in the Languedoc. The Languedoc is located near the border with Spain and runs along the Mediterranean Ocean. The Domaine de Courtal Fitou 2013 is a blend of 45% Carignan (the main grape of the region), 30% Syrah and 25% Grenache. The alcohol content is 13.5%.
The color is a see-thru black cherry red with a clear halo. The nose is red berries, light spice, blackberry and pepper. This is a medium-bodied, dry, flavorful red, while it is fruit forward it still retains a good bit of old world structure. It starts with a mix of strawberry and licorice (that might sound strange but it works), juicy plum and mild Altoids spice. The mid-palate brings a slight tug from the tannins and a late cooling hit of ripe blackberry. The smooth fruit and the slightly rough edged structure provide a nice contrast. The finish lingers for quite some time.
The Vin du Sud Collection Domaine de Courtal Fitou 2013 is a very solid Red blend. A very appealing combination of delicious fruit flavors, along with the balance and structure you have come to expect in French wines. It drinks very well on its own and would pair well with the typical patio BBQ grill fare. BBQ grilled chicken, pork loin and cheeseburgers come to mind and a carry-out steak burrito would also hit the spot.
