Domaine de Guingal Cahors Malbec 2009

Most wine fans know that “Malbec has become a fashionable grape ... thanks in large part to the popularity of Argentina’s plush and vivid versions” (Wine Spectator).

But few are aware that France’s Cahors region is Malbec’s original home, and has been famous for its delicious “black wines” for centuries. Why the nickname? Cahors Malbec – known to locals as “Côt” – grows exceptionally thick skins, which is the source of a wine’s color. When turned into wine, the grape yields a super-deep, inky-black hue in the glass. Very pretty to look at. Even more delicious to drink. (But often overshadowed by its celebrity-status Argentine counterpart.)

For now, that is.

Call us nostalgic for the past (or ahead of the curve), but we’re thrilled to bring this beauty – which sports two gold medals and a top score from Wine Enthusiast – to our customers. Crafted by Eric Filipiak from fruit sourced in the region’s highest terraces, this oak-matured red boasts 10 years of age and is made in the image of the region’s traditional reds, with a bit of a modern edge.

“Don’t expect the sweet ripeness of New World Malbec,” says our expert Jean-Marc Sauboua. “This is mellow and smooth. An absolute French classic that will come into its own with a hearty meal – I suggest a traditional garbure, a vegetable-based stew with cured meats and often duck confit.” (Simply roasted beef or grilled lamb will also do nicely!)

This is a really cool, rare find – a reboot of Cahors Malbec at its finest. And it’s time to order yours ...