Clos Siguier Classique Nature Malbec 2022

Clos Siguier is a family-run winery located in the Cahors region of southwestern France. Known for its commitment to organic farming and natural winemaking, Clos Siguier produces wines that reflect the rich terroir of the region. The estate is managed by Gilles Bley and his son Baptiste, who cultivate their vineyards with minimal intervention, using no synthetic chemicals and focusing on traditional methods.

The Cahors wine region, located in the southwest of France, is celebrated as the historic home of the Malbec grape, known locally as Côt or Auxerrois. This appellation lies approximately 160 kilometers east of Bordeaux and is centered around Cahors in the Lot department. The region's winemaking tradition dates back to Roman times, and it reached a peak during the Middle Ages when its wines were highly prized in England and other parts of Europe.

Cahors benefit from a diverse climate influenced by the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental factors. This results in warm, sunny summers and relatively dry conditions, ideal for viticulture. The Lot River, winding through the region, creates a variety of microclimates and contributes to the terroir. Vineyards are typically planted on limestone plateaus known as the Causses or gravel terraces along the riverbanks, each offering different soil characteristics influencing the wine's profile.

The dominant grape variety in Cahors is Malbec, which must constitute at least 70% of the blend in wines labeled as Cahors AOC. Merlot and Tannat are also permitted in smaller proportions. The wines of Cahors are known for their deep color, robust tannins, and flavors of black fruits, spices, and earthy notes. Traditionally, Cahors wines were known as "black wines" due to their dark color and intense flavor profile.

Modern winemaking in Cahors has seen a shift towards producing wines with more approachable tannins and greater fruit expression while still maintaining the characteristic depth and complexity. Some producers employ techniques like extended maceration and oak aging to achieve a balance between structure and elegance.

Several prominent wineries contribute to Cahors's reputation, including Château du Cèdre, Château de Chambert, and Clos Triguedina. These producers are known for their commitment to quality and innovation, often practicing organic or biodynamic viticulture to enhance the expression of their unique terroirs.

The Cahors wine region has experienced a resurgence in recent decades, attracting local and international investors. This revival has led to improvements in vineyard management, winemaking techniques, and the quality of the wines. The region's winemakers are increasingly focusing on terroir-driven wines, with a growing interest in identifying and promoting specific vineyard sites.