La Calmette - Bois Grand 2020
(Cahors, France)
Serious yet juicy and immediate. This Malbec/Merlot blend comes from a single vineyard of old vines planted on Kimmeridgian rock in France's South West. It was aged for one year in old barrels followed by 18 months in bottle and is drinking beautifully now. 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.