Viniou Reviews
Château Gaudou’s Cuvée Renaissance 2020 from Cahors AOC is a fine example of the region’s prowess with Malbec, locally known as Côt, often blended in smaller parts with Merlot and Tannat. The 2020 vintage was marked by a warm, dry growing season, producing expressive and concentrated reds. The vineyard nestles in the foothills of the Massif Central, benefitting from varied soils—clay-limestone terraces that impart structure and minerality to the wine. The vinification here is traditional, involving extended maceration to extract the deep colour and intense fruit typical of Malbec from Cahors, while partial ageing in French oak barrels lends an elegant, spicy complexity.
The Cahors region, sitting in the South-West of France, boasts a long heritage dating back to Roman times and was once famed across Europe for its “black wines” of extraordinary depth. The climate is predominantly continental, with warm summers and sufficient rainfall delivered by the influence of the Atlantic, moderated by the Lot River flowing through the vineyards. The soils, a patchwork of different terraces and gravelly banks, are ideal for Malbec, producing wines with a fine balance of freshness and power. The history and rugged beauty of the region are present in every glass—this is a terroir-driven wine that eloquently expresses its origins.
Cahors reds, especially a cuvée like Renaissance, call for food with strong flavours and some richness. They pair beautifully with duck breast or confit, classic cassoulet, braised lamb shank, or grilled beef rib. Regional specialties such as magret de canard or a hearty cassoulet genuinely make for memorable pairings. For a lighter option, you might consider roast root vegetables or a mature Comté cheese.
To best appreciate Château Gaudou Cuvée Renaissance 2020, serve it at 16-18°C. Decanting for 1 to 2 hours before serving will allow the wine’s dark fruit and spicy oak notes to fully develop, revealing its layered complexity and harmonious structure.
