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Fitou is a red wine appellation in the middle of southern France's Languedoc-Roussillon wine region. The wine gets its name from the village nearby, which is situated a few miles away from the Mediterranean coast. We highly recommend that you visit this region for its wine and landscapes. There's a lot to see and explore here, so you'll surely have great vacations. These wines have their own style and taste: notes of spices, scrubland, ripe or candied fruits on a background of wilder notes of venison or leather. If you are looking for new tastes in wine, this region is the best one to visit and explore new tastes of wine and local food.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Fitou Wine Region

Where is Fitou Wine Region

Fitou is an extension of the Corbières region that lies between Narbonne and Perpignan.The vines are split into two distinct areas: one that is close to the pond Leucate and Fitou, on small hills overlooking the castle of the same name.The second vine is located in the hinterland region near the village of Villeneuve des Corbières and about 20 km away from the first zone. It is some distance from other wine-producing regions, but has been recently classified as a Southern France wine area due to its proximity to Languedoc-Roussillon.

History of Fitou

Fitou is one of the oldest vineyards in Languedoc-Roussillon. The Greeks were the first to grow vines. The Romans improved the wines. Fitou has always been famous. It was one of the most important wines during Louis XIV's reign.

Terrior of Fitou

Fitou appellation covers an aggregate area of ​​26 square kilometers and produces around 9,300,000 liters of wines each year, averagely. Vineyards are located inlandand protected by a wide ridge of hills and so remain drier. The terroir of Fitou is characterized by a rocky clay limestone soil with schist, and a typically Mediterranean climate. The grapes thrive on this soil, providing red wines with an elegant flavor profile. This exposure gives wines power and body, fineness and suppleness.

Fitou Characteristics 

The Carignan grape most commonly used in this AOC is a hardwood variety and Mourvèdre can also be used. Fitou's grape varieties are mixed with distinct terroirs - and this is what makes the AOC different from most other wines. The wine goes through a traditional process of fermentation and is aged in oak barrels for a few years. These wines have a variety of scents, including spicy, earthy, and bold fruit-like scents. They are also known for being deep and wild with hints of leather.

Food to pair with Fitou

1. Blanquette de veau

Often considered a staple of French cuisine, blanquette de veau is the ultimate home cooked meal. Blanquette de veau is a type of French stew made with veal and other accompaniments. It's both classic and bourgeois, yet simple and flavorful. This recipe calls for the main ingredients to be simmered in white stock, resulting in a creamy and succulent sauce. Seafood dishes are usually served with rice, but you can also serve it along with a side of carrots, leeks, or cucumber to make it even better. Blanquette de veau pairs well with Fitou wines.

2. Pissaladière

Originating from the French city of Nice, pissaladière is a sort of French pizza. It can be baked or deep-fried, and it's typically thick so that it can sustain toppings. In the past, anchovy pizza was served as a full meal but nowadays it is typically eaten as a light appetizer. The dish consists of a dough base topped with anchovies, olives, onions and herbs that have been sweated to bring out their flavors. The name of this dish comes from the French phrase "pèi salat", which translates to "salted fish", one of the key ingredients used in preparation of pissaladière. The dish is believed to have been invented during the months that Avignon was under papal occupation, from 1305-1377. Pissaladière is best paired with a glass of Fitou wines.

3. Quenelle

Used as more than just a garnish in haute cuisine, this dumpling is called a quenelle practically meaning "an oval ball". The ingredients vary depending on what's used but includes ground meat, poultry, seafood and even vegetables. These are combined with breadcrumbs, eggs and flour or fat for stability. The typical shape of dumpling is typically oval, although not always. Its a dish which is served as an appetizer or main course, but can still be used as embellishment in other dishes. The French delicacy quenelle was originally invented in 18th century Lyon and traditionally consists of light white fish, such as pike. Pike quenelles are usually served with sauce Nantua, a hearty sauce made with crayfish. Today, the term quenelle has another popular meaning in the culinary world and it refers to an elegant scoop of ice cream, sorbet, mousse or whipped cream. It pairs well with Fitou wines.

Places to visit near Fitou

1. La Palme

La Palme is a resort and village in the department of Aude, between Leucate and Port-la-Nouvelle. La Palme sits within the Narbonnais Natural Park, which is close to the town of Narbonne. The village is situated between the vineyards of the region to one side and the lagoon, salt-flats and the sea to the other side. The village has retained its original medieval gateways as well as various other interesting historic artefacts. The market takes place every Thursday morning in La Palme.

2. Sigean Nature Reserve

Africa's nature reserve is an area of 300 hectares and it houses lots of animals. It includes your favourites - flamingos, zebras, lions, and rhinoceroses. All these animals can be housed in this big space! There is a main route through the park that should take about an hour by car (or bus). You will see various parts of nature along the way, such as forests, wetlands and rivers. Other benefits of the reserve? Spending time with locals, sight-seeing and experiencing life in this beautiful location, something we couldn't do if the animals weren't here.

3. Explore Perpignan

The medieval center of Perpignan is full of charm. As with many Mediterranean cities, the Basse River flows through the city and there are plenty of gardens to be seen, most notably along its edge. Walking south from the river into tight streets, you pass a number of beautiful squares that entice you to explore their unique beauty.

France Travel is a great way for visitors to get a glimpse of the French culture and some other sights. Perpignan has a good mix of old traditions and modernity so its an ideal place to simply spend some time, look in local stores, take in the atmosphere and explore this part of France.

Frequently asked questions about Fitou Wine Region

What type of red wine is Fitou?

Fitou is the oldest appellation from Languedoc. Located in the South of France, on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, it benefits from optimal weather conditions. Grown on Mediterranean soil.

What does Fitou taste like?

Fitou wines have scents of spices, scrubland, ripe or candied fruits on a background of wilder notes of venison or leather, especially if they are aged.

What are the main grape varieties in Fitou wine region?

The main grape varieties in Fitou wine region are Carignan and Grenache

What food goes with Fitou wine?

Fitou wine pairs well with hearty and robust Mediterranean dishes. It complements grilled meats such as lamb or beef, as well as stews and casseroles. Additionally, it pairs nicely with aged cheeses and dishes featuring Mediterranean herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano.

Where is Fitou wine from in France?

Fitou wine is from the Languedoc-Roussillon region in southern France. It is specifically produced in the Fitou appellation, which is one of the oldest wine appellations in the Languedoc and is known for its rich and robust red wines made primarily from Carignan, Grenache, and Mourvèdre grapes.

What type of wine is Fitou?

Fitou is a red wine. It is a robust and full-bodied wine that typically exhibits flavors of dark fruits, spices, and herbs. Fitou wines are known for their depth and complexity, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy bold and rich red wines.

Map of Wineries in Fitou

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Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in Fitou