Clos Siguier, Cahors, France

Bright, perfumed, and unusually supple for Cahors, 2022 Clos Siguier reveals a lighter expression of the region's traditionally powerful reds. The domaine's classic cuvée combines 90% Malbec with 10% Tannat from its high limestone plateau vineyards, where shallow clay-limestone soils and elevation encourage freshness alongside concentration. Fermented with indigenous yeasts, given a relatively gentle maceration, and raised in tank rather than marked by new oak, it delivers dark fruit, violets, and earthy complexity through a silky, structured palate at a restrained 13% ABV.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: Gilles Bley
• Grapes: 90% Malbec (Auxerrois), 10% Tannat
• Farming: Organic
• Soils: Shallow clay-limestone
• Vine Age: Approximately 45 years on average across the estate
• Vineyard Elevation: Up to approximately 360 meters
• Fermentation: Traditional vinification with indigenous yeasts
• Maceration: 10 to 15 days
• Aging: Tank aged, with bottling beginning after approximately 18 months
• ABV: 13%

Sensory Description:

Blackberry and dark plum lead the aromatic profile, joined by crushed violet, plum skin, and a subtle tobacco-like earthiness. The palate combines ripe red and black fruit with a freshness that distinguishes Clos Siguier's high-plateau style from the heavier expressions historically associated with Cahors. Malbec provides dark fruit, perfume, and depth, while the small proportion of Tannat adds structure and a gently astringent edge. The tannins are present but fine and silky, carrying the fruit through a savory, mineral-tinged finish.

Winemaker's Background:

Clos Siguier is a small family domaine whose history of wine production in Cahors dates to 1779. Today the Bley family continues that tradition, with Gilles Bley and his son Baptiste carrying the estate forward. Its approximately 15 hectares occupy the limestone plateaus above the Lot Valley, reaching around 360 meters in elevation and lying apart from the deeper, heavier soils closer to the river. Shallow clay-limestone soils make vine growth challenging but help give the fruit concentration while preserving the freshness, perfume, and comparatively delicate structure that distinguish the domaine's interpretation of Cahors. Malbec, traditionally known locally as Auxerrois, accounts for the majority of the vineyard, supplemented by Tannat and a small amount of Mauzac. In the cellar, the family favors natural vinification, indigenous yeasts, restrained extraction, and tank aging, allowing fruit and limestone terroir to remain at the center of the wines.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 17 to 19 degrees Celsius in a generous red wine glass. The domaine considers this cuvée approachable young while capable of developing for approximately eight years, and a short decant can help a youthful bottle reveal more of its floral and dark-fruited character. Pair with grilled lamb, duck, roast beef, charcuterie, mushroom risotto, lentil dishes, aged Gouda, or firm regional cheeses.