A red-grape variety that’s grown primarily in SOUTHWEST FRANCE. It’s a minor ingredient in a number of growing areas like the CÔTES DU MARMANDAIS AC, CÔTES DE SAINT-MONT VDQS, GAILLAC AC, and MADIRAN AC. However, Fer plays a more prominent role in the wines of Vins d’ Entraygues et du Fel VDQS, Vins d’ Estaing VDQS, and MARCILLAC AC. A small amount is also used in the CABARDÈS AC in the LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON. Fer provides good color, concentrated spicy flavors and aromas, and a softness that helps balance some of its BLENDING partners in the rustic southwest wines. Argentina’s Fer variety is believed to be MALBEC.