Clos d'Audhuy "Queue De Pressoir" 2020

The vineyards of Clos d'Audhuy sit 150-260 meters above sea level on a gravel and alluvial shelf rising from the Lot River, as well as on the plateau above, where the limestone bedrock is covered by the barest layer of soil. Third-generation winemaker Benoit Aymard farms his six hectares using only organic practices, with a laserlike focus on showcasing the terroir of the region. Clos d’Audhuy is located in the village of Lacapelle-Cabanac, in the west part of the Cahors AOC, an appellation noted as the center of malbec production. However, “Queue De Pressoir” highlights the obscure ségalin grape, a nearly-forgotten variety indigenous to Cahors, known for its tannic, rustic character. Here it is vinified in an almost rosé-like fashion; harvested early from 50-year-old vines and lightly extracted, thus allowing the more delicate elements of the grape to come through on a  medium-bodied (rather than robust) frame. Combined with 30% “end of press” malbec from Benoit’s ‘Polissons’ rosé, the result is a surprisingly easy drinking, off-the-beaten-path quaff. Bright bursts of ripe red berries (strawberry/raspberry), medium bodied though almost light with low tannin. A true “glou glou” wine - it’s hard not to gulp down. Certified organic, low-intervention/natural wine, vegan.