La Calmette - Bois Grand 2023

(Cahors, France) 

Another of their prized single vineyard estate wines, this blend of Malbec and Merlot comes from the Bois Grand vineyard. This has been the name of the vineyard since the late 1700s, as described in the Cadestre Napoleonien, an old land registry. It means 'large forest', suggesting the site was surrounded by woods.

There is a tense mineral backbone which is uncommon in reds, let alone in Malbec. Gorgeous perfumed aromatic of purple/dark berry fruits, with notes of caramel and a slight savoury edge. A medium/full-bodied wine with the structure expected from Malbec but without the over extraction of the over-oaked character that this region can be known for. This still ticks all the boxes for Malbec but showcases a restraint and a finesse that makes this one of the best expressions of the grape we have come across.

Domaine La Calmette was started in 2015 by Maya & Nicolas, a talented couple who bring not only a thorough knowledge of viticulture but also a meticulously researched scientific backbone to their natural wines. Explosive, bursting with life and vibrancy.