Château Latuc Cuvée Prestige 2018 is a fine expression from the Cahors AOC, located in the picturesque foothills of the Massif Central in Southwest France. Predominantly crafted from Malbec, this deep red wine often undergoes meticulous hand-harvesting and careful vinification, typically aged in oak barrels to enhance its structure and complexity. The 2018 vintage benefitted from favourable growing conditions, resulting in ripe, concentrated fruit and velvety tannins. On the palate, expect intense aromas of black plum, blackberry, and black cherry, complemented by subtle notes of tobacco, spice, and well-integrated oak. The nose hints at earth and violets, while the finish is long and harmonious, characteristic of Cahors wines made with great attention to quality.
Cahors, situated in the Sud-Ouest wine region, is renowned for its "black wines," a testament to the powerful, dark-hued Malbec grape. The area's clay and limestone soils contribute minerality and longevity, while the moderate continental climate, shaped by both the Lot River and elevation, provides cool nights that help preserve freshness and acidity in the grapes. With roots tracing back to Roman times and a history of supplying robust reds to England in the Middle Ages, Cahors has retained its reputation for producing inky, structured wines with depth and ageing potential.
For food pairings, this Cahors is a natural companion to hearty dishes and classic French cuisine. It pairs beautifully with duck confit, cassoulet, grilled red meats, and game. Regional specialities such as magret de canard or lamb roasted with garlic and herbs will also complement the wine’s tannic backbone and dark fruit profile. For cheese, try a mature Cantal or Roquefort.
To best appreciate Château Latuc Cuvée Prestige 2018, serve it at around 16-18°C, ideally after decanting for an hour to allow the bouquet to open fully. This temperature enhances both the wine's aromatic intensity and smoothness, making it ideal for enjoyment now or for cellaring over the next few years.
