2021 Domaine du Cros Marcillac Lo Sang del Pais

Lo Sang del Pais is an Occitan dialect saying meaning ‘the blood of the country.’  This wine is a classic representation of the soil, the micro-climate and the Mansois grape variety.

Otherwise known as ‘Fer Servadou,’ Mansois is a dark-skinned variety notably associated with the Marcillac region. The variety thrives on the region’s iron-rich ferrous soils, hence the name ‘Fer,’ though some think the origin of this name is more likely to come from the Latin word ‘ferus’ meaning feral as the variety is thought to have descended from wild grapes. Others believe that the grape has its roots in Spain’s Basque Country. Modern genetic testing has recently placed the variety within the Carmenere family tree.

Domaine du Cros’ vineyards are located on incredibly steep slopes (up to 65% gradient!), with reddish, clay soils (called ‘Rougier’) that are iron rich and produce earthy yet fruity red wines. Because of the extreme gradients, the vines are all harvested by hand. This is also a gentler way to harvest grapes, which reduces the occurrence of any damage to the fruit.

Mansois produces reds at the lighter end of the scale, and this is no exception. Ruby red in the glass, this is light, crunchy and thirst-quenching with flavours of raspberry and plum mixed with spicy and peppery notes on a fresh finish. Pair with Lamb with aligot (a delicious, mashed potato dish combined with cheese) - pure decadence.