Domaine Bertrand-Bergé, Fitou Origines, Languedoc-Roussillon, France 2019

Jérôme Bertrand is the seventh generation in a respected winemaking family, overseeing 33 hectares of organically farmed vineyards, planted to Grenache, Carignan and Syrah, with an average age of 60 years old. The wines are matured in concrete tanks rather than oak simply because there is no room for barrels in the winery, though the plan is to convert an old stable block for the purpose. A blend of 60% Carignan with 40% Grenache, this is great value and perfect to match with winter meat stews – full-bodied, with brambly forest fruit and black plum flavours, pepper and spice, and good length.