Château Les Croisille 'Calcaire' Cahors Malbec 2022

Winemaking

Château Les Croisille takes a terroir-focused approach to Cahors, allowing the distinctive limestone soils to express themselves in the wine rather than imposing a heavy hand in the cellar. The 'Calcaire' cuvée is a deliberate selection that showcases how chalk and limestone—less common in traditional Cahors blends—can bring freshness and mineral tension to the naturally powerful Malbec grape.

Tasting Notes

Deep plum and blackberry aromatics open with a mineral backbone that speaks to the wine's chalky limestone origin. On the palate, firm, well-integrated tannins frame flavors of dark cherry and slate, while earthy undertones add complexity and grounding. The finish is long and composed, closing with a whisper of black pepper and spice that doesn't overshadow the wine's natural elegance.

Producer

Château Les Croisille is a respected estate within the Cahors appellation, known for mining the region's diverse soil profiles to create wines that balance the historic power of Cahors Malbec with modern freshness. The 'Calcaire' bottling reflects the estate's commitment to highlighting limestone parcels that bring mineral precision and aging potential to their portfolio.

Terroir

Cahors, in southwest France, produces some of the world's greatest Malbecs, and this wine comes from vineyards planted on the chalky limestone plateau that gives the cuvée its name. The combination of limestone soils, a continental-influenced climate, and the Lot River's moderating effects creates ideal conditions for Malbec to develop both power and refinement, with the chalk contributing crisp mineral notes that cut through the wine's natural weight.

Food Pairings

The structured tannins and dark fruit make this an excellent match for pan-seared duck breast with cherry gastrique and roasted root vegetables. For a more casual pairing, try it alongside a grilled lamb burger with herbs and black olive tapenade. The wine's mineral spine also pairs beautifully with aged Comté or other firm, nutty cheeses.