Clos La Coutale, in Cahors, Southwest France, is famous for its wines, especially those made from Malbec grapes. The vineyard has a long history. It reflects the story of Cahors as a wine region. The region is known for its strong, tannic red wines.
The winery has been with the Bernede family for generations. They have kept and grown the vineyard's reputation. The vineyard covers 60 hectares near the Lot River. The land and climate here are perfect for growing grapes. Malbec, or 'Cot', is the main grape. It makes up 70% of the vineyard. The rest is Merlot. This mix is common in Cahors. Clos La Coutale has perfected it, making wines that are strong and elegant.
The vineyard mixes old methods with new ones. They use sustainable farming. This keeps the vineyard healthy. It helps the wines show the true character of the land.
The winemaking at Clos La Coutale respects tradition. They pick the grapes carefully, often by hand. They ferment the grapes in steel and concrete tanks. This keeps the fruit's pure taste. The wines then age in oak barrels. This adds complexity and depth. The ageing lasts 12 to 18 months, depending on the year.
The flagship is the Cahors. This is a strong red wine. It shows the best of the Malbec grape. The wine is almost black. It smells of dark fruits, spices, and earth. It tastes full-bodied and rich. It has firm tannins and a long finish. The Merlot in the blend softens the Malbec. This makes the wine easier to drink when young. It still ages well.
The winery also makes white and rosé wines. These are less known than the reds. They are made with the same care. They show the land's different sides.
Clos La Coutale is part of the Cahors community. The estate offers tours and tastings. These show the winemaking process and the region's history. Visitors connect with the land and its people.
The vineyard focuses on sustainability. They want to keep the vineyard and environment healthy for the future. This includes managing water, keeping biodiversity, and reducing their carbon footprint.