Cahors French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Cahors is the historic home of Malbec in southwest France, famous for deep, dark, powerful red wines once known as the "black wine" of Cahors.
More info about Cahors
Geographic position
Southwestern France, in the Lot department, along the winding meanders of the Lot river around the medieval town of Cahors and its famous Valentré bridge, and on the limestone plateaus (causses) above, about 100 km north of Toulouse.
Origin & history
The Romans planted vines here over 2,000 years ago. In the Middle Ages the "black wine" of Cahors was prized in England and at the Russian Orthodox Church. Devastated by phylloxera and the frost of 1956, the vineyard was replanted and became an AOC in 1971. Argentine Malbec, now world-famous, descends from cuttings of this region.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, from Malbec (locally called Côt or Auxerrois, at least 70%), with Merlot and Tannat. Expect blackberry, black cherry, plum, violet, liquorice and spice, with firm tannins and great ageing potential.
Climate & soil
A blend of oceanic and Mediterranean influences, with warm summers. Gravel and alluvial terraces in the Lot valley, and limestone, clay and iron-rich soils on the causses.