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By: Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 9/8/2021 | Send Email
Cahors has a long and in many places, sad history. It was once the producer of the most coveted red wines in western France until Bordeaux began its ascent. Cahors started its decline as Bordeaux's control over the rivers and ports stymied the distribution of Cahors wines. On top of that, a severe battle with phylloxera all but decimated the region in the late 1800s cutting vine holdings to a fraction of their former glory. It was not until the 1970s when the region began to see renewed interest. New producers moved in, vineyards that had fallen fallow began to be replanted with new rootstock materials and clones that were better suited to the environment. As Cahors is the birthplace of Malbec, even after interest increased, it was not until they received a boost from the wine market's fascination with Argentinean Malbec that the renaissance in the region truly began. Chateau Lamartine is equally fascinating as it has been a family estate since the 1800s. The estate survived the phylloxera epidemic, and Edouard Sérougne was able to save many of his vines and keep the estate going. He helped keep the appellation moving forward through all the tough times and even helped finalize it's official recognition in 1971. He died in 1975 but was followed by his son, grandchildren and now, great-grandchildren. Lamartine is classic Cahors, showing its exceptional sense of place. It has beautiful currant fruit and spice notes that would shame any Bordeaux at twice its price. The palate is full, with caressing tannins that accentuate the rich fruit. This is a wine that over-delivers by a wide margin in its price. One of the best young(er) Cahors that I have tried in recent memory and a fitting place to begin your journey if you are unfamiliar. This has the cross appeal to charm both Bordeaux drinkers looking to mix up their daily drinking and also fans of Argentine Malbec that prefer the more powerful but balanced styles. Tremendous!
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