The exhaustive tasting (over 100 cuvées!) held at Villa Malbec (Cahors) first invited us to delve into wines from terraces or alluvial zones. A second day was dedicated to the production from the terroirs of the Causse, including Kimmeridgian, siderolithic, or clayey zones. First observation: massive wines are gradually giving way to more digestible Malbecs. Second observation: wines from terraces now boast proud quality.
The quality and homogeneity of the selection from terrace production were remarkable, often presenting wines with striking freshness. Château Cantelauze-Mezy, Nihil, 2020: a lovely nose of violet and heather, a mouthful of pulsating fruits. Some undergrowth notes linger on the finish. Clos La Coutale, 2022: a delicate and elegant nose, leaning towards floral. The smooth and elongated palate is carried by charming ageing. Château du Cèdre, GC, 2020: a nose with vegetal freshness and a hint of fresh humus. Tannins a bit tight and powdery, very refined and promising juice.
We won't dwell on the beauty of the wines from the rugged terroirs of the Causse, which are at the origin of the revival of Cadurcian Malbec. Domaine La Calmette, Trespotz, 2022: the nose is composed of dark and concentrated fruits with some hints evoking foliage. A lovely symphony of wild black fruits dominates the palate. Domaine d’Homs, Petit Page, 2021: a suave nose with southern notes of tapenade and smoke. The slender palate offers a nice texture and a lot of class. Clos Troteligotte, K’Lys, 2020: a rather discreet and fine nose, with some hints of tobacco, dried meat, and a touch of roasting. Silky mouthfeel with joyful and tonic acidity.
Henry Clemens
We are in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, southeast of the Montagne de Reims, where Pierre Philipponnat...
The property of Chambrun was established between the two world wars by the Chollet family.
