Wines Cahors Lamartine - 70 Ares - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Château Lamartine's Cuvée 70 Ares 2020 is a classic red wine from the Cahors AOC in the South-West of France, particularly renowned for its robust expressions of Malbec (known locally as Côt or Auxerrois). While precise blend details are not specified, Cahors regulations require Malbec to be the dominant grape, often complemented by small proportions of Merlot and Tannat, lending structure and complexity. The 2020 vintage presents a remarkable balance between vigour and freshness, benefitting from a vintage marked by warm days and cool nights, which enhances both ripeness and aromatic vibrancy. Vinification typically occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve fruit purity, before a period of ageing that may include oak to round out the tannins and add subtle spicy notes.

Cahors, lying on the southwestern slopes at the foot of the Massif Central, boasts a unique terroir. The vineyards enjoy a temperate climate, strongly influenced by the Atlantic but also by the warmth of the south, creating optimal conditions for slow grape maturation. The soils are a mosaic of limestone plateau (the causses) and alluvial terraces along the Lot River, which foster power and minerality in the wines. Cahors has a long heritage as the original stronghold for Malbec, producing wines historically referred to as "black wines" for their deep, almost inky colour and robust structure.

The assertive yet elegant style of this Cahors lends itself beautifully to hearty fare. Traditional pairings include duck confit or cassoulet, classic dishes of the South-West, whose rich textures harmonise with the wine's dense tannins. Grilled ribeye, slow-cooked lamb shanks, or aged hard cheeses like Cantal and Salers also provide excellent matches, emphasising the wine's dark fruit core and savoury complexity.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the Cuvée 70 Ares for about an hour before serving to allow the tannic structure and aromatic profile to fully unfold. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to showcase its depth and finesse. This wine can be enjoyed now, but also holds great promise for further ageing in the cellar.