Viniou Reviews
Clos de Gamot 2018 is a red wine from the Cahors AOC, nestled in the south-west of France, at the foothills of the Massif Central. This wine is crafted predominantly from Malbec, locally known as Côt or Auxerrois, a grape variety that has long been the hallmark of the region. The 2018 vintage benefited from favourable weather conditions, allowing for an optimal balance of ripe fruit and freshness. Traditional vinification methods at Clos de Gamot respect the grape’s character, often favouring lengthy maceration and maturation in oak or traditional vessels to emphasise structure, depth, and the robust personality for which Cahors is celebrated.
The Cahors region is steeped in winemaking history, dating back to Roman times but coming to prominence in the Middle Ages when its “black wines” graced royal tables across Europe. The terroir is defined by its gravelly and limestone-rich soils, with terraces rising from the Lot River. These elements combine with a continental climate—hot, dry summers and cool nights—which encourage full phenolic ripeness yet retain striking freshness. The wines from this area are renowned for their deep colour, firm tannins, and potential for longevity.
When it comes to food pairing, Clos de Gamot 2018’s powerful structure and earthy notes make it ideal for robust dishes. It pairs wonderfully with regional specialities such as confit de canard, cassoulet, and magret de canard. Slow-cooked lamb, grilled venison, and aged hard cheeses also complement its depth. For a classic touch, try it alongside truffle-based dishes from the Lot region, which echo the wine’s earthy undertones.
For optimal enjoyment, decanting the wine an hour in advance will help soften its natural tannic grip and open up its aromatic complexity. Serve at 16-18°C to ensure the harmonious balance of fruit intensity, freshness, and structure is beautifully revealed. This bottle is a fine candidate for cellaring, with potential to evolve gracefully over the coming decade.
