K-lys AOC 2020

Wine description for K-lys AOC 2020 from Clos Troteligotte

In the barren heights of Cahors, where the iron-rich clay-limestone soil from the Tertiary period characterises the wine, Emmanuel Rybinski from Clos Troteligotte has created a remarkable interpretation of Malbec with his K-lys. This wine epitomises the renaissance of a region that has long been overshadowed by more prominent French appellations, but is now regaining its unique identity with self-confident precision.

Visual impression

In the glass, the K-lys shows a medium-dense garnet red colour with ruby red reflections on the rim - restrained in its opacity, like a curtain that is only slowly ready to open. The moderate colour intensity belies the depth that this wine has to offer.

Nose

The bouquet unfolds with aristocratic restraint. Not exuberant, but precise and multi-layered, it reveals notes of red and blackcurrantaccompanied by a hint of Goji berries and the tart freshness of Sour cherries. With a little contact with the air, subtle hints of Blood orange zest, Cranberries and a fine spiciness from Juniper, Anis and black pepper added. Floral notes of Violets hover over the whole, while earthy undertones of Black olives in brine and echoes of hung game complete the complexity - an olfactory poem that captures the essence of the ferrous terroir.

Palate

On the palate, the K-lys is initially reserved, almost shy - a wine that does not immediately reveal its secrets. However, with patience and a little oxygen (an hour in the carafe is almost obligatory), it begins to reveal its true nature. The tannin is finely structured, with just the right amount of grip, without ever appearing rustic. Remarkable are the subtle notes of Blood and rust - direct descendants of the iron-rich soil from which the vines draw their strength.

The K-lys is not an opulent, but a well-trained, precise wine - muscular yet slender, with a cool elegance reminiscent of the altitude of the vineyards. The acidity gives it freshness and vibrancy, while a subtle salinity provides length and tension. At 12.5% alcohol, it remains pleasantly restrained and shows that true power lies not in force but in balance. A deep minerality and vibrant energy pervade the wine right through to the long, lingering finish.

General information

The K-lys 2020 is a testament to artisanal winemaking. The grapes come from microplots 350 metres above sea level with siderolithic clay-limestone soil from the Tertiary period - a terroir that gives the wine its unmistakable identity. Hand-picking is followed by respectful handling of the grapes: destemming, spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, gentle extraction and a long maceration. Maturation for 24 months in large oak barrels of 20 and 30 hectolitres on the fine lees gives the wine structure without masking the expression of the terroir. The absence of clarification and filtration and the minimal addition of sulphur (only 20mg/l total sulphur) emphasise the winemaker's desire to create an authentic, unadulterated expression of Cahors.

Food pairing suggestions

This wine calls for dishes with character that respect its complexity without overpowering it. It harmonises excellently with Roast duck breast with sour cherry sauce, Braised rabbit with olives or a Mushroom risotto with black truffle. Vegetarians will love the combination with baked beetroot carpaccio and Goat cheese appreciate. The subtle iron note of the wine finds an interesting echo in rare fillet of beef with Pepper sauce. For a particularly authentic experience, serve it with Cassoulet or Confit de canard - classic dishes of south-west French cuisine.