Cahors in South West France is home of French Malbec (or Cot as it is sometimes known). It's an area that has been known for wines of strong body, concentration and dark colour since the early middle ages.
Sitting on the The Lot river, which traditionally provided the transport link to northern Europe via the Garonne. Wines must have a minimum of 70% Malbec, but can include some Tannat or Merlot as a blending partner. Vineyards are often on limestone plateaus or sand and gravel plots.
Cahors had seen a decline in popularity in previous decades, during which the popularity of Argentinian Malbec had been stratospheric. However, in recent years there has been a new wave of producers making more approachable reds but with the soul of the region.
The Cahors area is a gastronomic delight with walnuts, truffles and the Rocamador goats cheese all being local specialities.
