13 December 2017
This traditional Cahors, is a blend of Malbec (85%), Merlot (13%) and Tannat (2%).
Although it is now the iconic grape variety of Argentina, Malbec is native to this region of southwestern France. In the AOC Cahors wines, Malbec must constitute at least 70 percent of the blend.
In the past Malbec was used in Bordeaux’s blends as well, especially to give color to the local claret. Its importance got significantly reduced after the great frost of 1956, which killed off many of the oldest vines (they got substituted by other varieties).
This deeply coloured red wine has a meaty, herb tinged aroma. In the mouth a savory bitterness dominates, accompanied by some black plum and cherries. The finish is smoky and very dry, but in a somehow non-disturbing way.
I bought this bottle at Nicolas in Marseille for 17 EUR. It is my first Cahors wine ever. I find it interesting and may try some more in the future, although this “original” Malbec is certainly not as easy to enjoy as the Argentinian version.
Country: France
Region: Cahors
Grapes: Malbec (85%), Merlot (13%) and Tannat (2%)
Type: Red
Vintage: 2013
Producer: Jean-Luc Baldès
Price Range: Medium (15-30 US$)
Pascal’s Enjoyment Index: 2/5