Wines Cahors Château Camp del Saltre - Malbec - 2018

Château Camp del Saltre 2018, hailing from the esteemed Cahors appellation in the South-West of France, offers a fine expression of the region’s traditional red wine style. This cuvée, likely produced primarily from Malbec—a variety historically referred to locally as Côt—shows all the hallmark characteristics so cherished in Cahors reds. On the nose, you may discover intense black fruit aromas, such as blackberry and black plum, mingled with subtle touches of violets and spice. In the mouth, these fruit notes are often complemented by firm yet ripe tannins and a freshness that gives the wine a structured elegance. Given its 2018 vintage, this bottle is reaching a harmonious stage, balancing youthful vivacity with a developing bouquet that hints at truffle and tobacco as it evolves.

The Cahors region sits on the limestone plateaux and slopes of the southern foothills of the Massif Central. This area is shaped by a moderate continental climate influenced by the proximity of the Lot River, which helps to temper extremes and encourage a long ripening period—particularly important for dark-skinned varieties like Malbec. The soils, typically a mix of gravel, clay and limestone, lend structure, freshness, and a sense of minerality to the wines. Cahors itself boasts a vinous history stretching back to Roman times, earning a reputation for robust, long-lived wines that have found favour well beyond France's borders.

To accompany a wine of this nature, regional dishes such as duck confit, cassoulet or grilled Toulouse sausage provide a hearty match for its depth and tannic backbone. Equally, roast lamb, chargrilled beef, or rich mushroom dishes will complement the wine’s earthy undertones. For a local touch, try pairing with truffle-infused specialties or a plateau of aged French cheeses such as Rocamadour.

For optimal enjoyment, open the bottle a little ahead of serving and allow it to breathe. The ideal tasting temperature is between 16 and 18°C, which will enhance both its aromatic complexity and refined palate.