2007 Clos la Coutale Cahors

Clos La Coutale is a 150-acre estate in Cahors, in Southwest France. The domaine was founded in 1895 by the Bernede family and it is today operated by Philippe Bernede. The Cahors appellation is thought to be the birthplace of the Malbec grape and the estate’s wines are generally about 80% Malbec and 20% Merlot. Wine Advocate has often complimented Clos La Coutale, noting several years ago that the estate has enjoyed “a long running streak of excellence.”

This grape produces a dark red wine with plenty of tannins. It is one of the six grapes allowed for blending red Bordeaux wines. Malbec is also the flagship variety of Argentina. The grape needs a lot of sun and heat to mature. It adds complexity and intensity to blends.