Malbec

Also known as: Cot (Loire), Auxerrois (Cahors, historically), Pressac (Bordeaux)

Malbec from Cahors has nothing in common with the Argentine fruit bomb. On the limestone plateaux of the Lot, the variety develops a dense, almost black structure that wraps itself around cores of stone and iron. These wines need time – not because they’re inaccessible, but because they have more to tell than they reveal at first sip.

At Clos Troteligotte, one sees what Malbec can achieve when not forced towards sweetness. The old vines deliver concentration without heaviness, fruit without confiture. Habla in Extremadura also works with the variety – somewhat warmer, but with the same commitment to clarity.