Little known to wine lovers, Marselan is a black grape variety resulting from the crossing of Grenache Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Discover all the secrets of this vine variety.
To find out more about grape varieties, we invite you to read our grape variety guide .
The origins of marselan
Marselan is a hybrid grape variety which was obtained in 1961 by crossing two black grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache. This hybridization, at the initiative of ENSAM and INRA, then benefits from the qualities of these two vine varieties originating from Spain and France.
Since the 1960s, marselan has been mainly cultivated in the Rhône Valley and Languedoc-Roussillon , but it is also found in other countries around the world, such as Spain, California and Switzerland.
Today, in France, Marsellan is present on more than 6,000 hectares of vines .
The particularities of marselan
Marselan vineyards can be recognized by their elongated, rather small clusters. The small grape berries, often rounded, have a purple-black skin and not very juicy flesh. To be able to flourish fully, the marselan must draw from deep all the nutrients, freshness and humidity it needs for its development.
Marselan is a grape variety that is renowned for being fertile, but its yield is low. It is also rather resistant , but it remains sensitive to mites, powdery mildew, downy mildew and phylloxera scabs.
Wines from Marselan
Used both as a single varietal and as a blended wine, Marselan produces red wines with aromas of fruit and spices . As an accessory grape variety, Marselan is used in the composition of local wines from the south of France, but also in the AOC Côtes du Rhône appellation.
It is then very appreciated for its notes of cocoa, spices, red and black fruits, but also prune and licorice. Rather balanced in tannins and subtly harsh, Marselan red wine evolves very well over time .
Vinified as a rosé wine, Marselan is more surprising, and often unexpected. It then displays a pale color and delicate aromas.
What food and wine pairings for Marselan?
Quite powerful on the palate, red wines produced with Marselan are particularly appreciated with red meats or slow-cooked dishes. Generally speaking, it works wonders with meats in sauce or grilled meats, or even Mediterranean cuisine.
Marselan rosé wine , for its part, tastefully accompanies gourmet aperitifs and generous cuisine.
Our rosé wine made from Marselan
At Château Saint-Roux, winegrowers use a wide variety of vines to produce quality blended rosé wines. Each then offers its riches and draws on the generosity of the Provençal terroir to offer the best in Provence wine .
The estate then offers to introduce you to the Friponne vintage, an IGP Méditerranée from 2022 . This organic wine made from 7 grape varieties is the reflection of Provence, with beautiful suppleness and great freshness. On the palate, we discover aromas of white fruits and ripe stone fruits. These qualities are perfect to accompany a sophisticated aperitif, or very gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.
Marselan is a little-known black grape variety, which nevertheless works wonders, alone or in blends.
