In the world of wine, the French will
invariably tell you that they did it first. But when it comes to Malbec wine,
there’s no argument - they did!
So when World Malbec Day rolls around
on 17 April, give credit where credit is due. Rather than breaking out the
empanadas and gaucho boots - and going all Argentinean, lift a glass to those
who did Malbec first, the French - and who are in a class of their own.
Malbec’s traditional heartland is in the south
west of France in Cahors where it is known as the Black Wine of Cahors. The city of Cahors (above) sits on a bend of the Lot river which snakes through this stunning region.
Although historically one of the six grapes
allowed for blending red Bordeaux, further south west in Cahors, Malbec reigns
supreme. It is the dominant red varietal where the region’s appellation controlee
calls for a minimum of 70% Malbec in its reds. Says The Guardian (UK):
"Cahors is that rarest of all wines: both a rising star and a timeless
classic."
It was French agronomist
Miguel Pouquet who bought French grape vine cuttings to Argentina in the mid 19th
century. But it was his godfather, Seur Malbek in France for whom the grape was
named in the late 17th century, who was the champion of this
‘timeless classic’.
Cahors Malbec draws on
the legendary Dordogne soils to display complexity and structure with a full
bodied, tannin backbone that unashamedly points to longevity. In its modern
form its gorgeous, brooding colour belies its sensual elegance.
In recent years, as the
world-wide interest in Malbec wines has increased, the Cahors producers have
prominently displayed Malbec on the front labels. They have become one of the
first French wine regions to label by variety not just by region.
We have found a steadily growing following
for our Cahors Malbec. The Argentinean
Malbecs made in their sunny Australian style have helped open people’s eyes to
the variety. But, on this World Malbec
Day, for those looking for something more complex and definitive, discover the
‘black wine of Cahors’ and in particular, our Chȃteau Haut Monplaisir Prestige. Once you go
black – there’s no going back.”
Château Haut Monplaisir Prestige
2006
AOC Cahors-Rouge
100% Malbec
Certified Organic
Our Tasting notes: Deep garnet red colour. The
nose is intense, with notes of red fruit, spices and blackberry jam.
Crisp and even, this wine presents aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry on the
palate, along with a mineral note. The finish is lengthy and complex,
with notes of chocolate and spices, and with just a hint of woody aromas. Fabulous malbec, aged and drinking to perfection.
RRP
through www.discovervin.com.au $35.00
