La Griotte
For six generations, Clos La Coutale has embodied both the heritage and the renewal of the great wines of Cahors. Located in Vire-sur-Lot, the estate extends over 100 hectares of vineyards planted exclusively with Malbec, the emblematic grape variety of the appellation. Renowned for its diverse terroirs and historic know-how, the property produces wines combining character, finesse, and authenticity.
With “La Griotte,” the new generation of the estate offers a more modern and approachable expression of Cahors. This cuvée highlights freshness, supple tannins, and generous fruit while preserving the depth and identity of Malbec.
History
The history of Clos La Coutale began more than two centuries ago in the heart of the Lot Valley. As evidenced by a still-visible window lintel, part of the cellar dates back to 1779.
In the 19th century, Charles Bernède, born in 1840 and graduated from the Agricultural School of Cahors in 1860, developed the estate with ambition and modern vision. For nearly forty years, he managed the vineyard with remarkable precision and dedication, as reflected in the accounting books preserved from that period.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Charles’ son took over the estate before leaving for war around 1916, from which he never returned. His wife and son Ernest then continued to run the property, practicing mixed farming while working the vineyards with horses.
Clos La Coutale became one of the pioneering estates in the revival of the Cahors vineyard. Valmy Bernède played an active role in rebuilding the vineyard, developing bottling production, and contributing to the recognition of Cahors as an AOC in 1971. As early as 1895, the estate received a bronze medal at the Concours Général Agricole de Paris.
Since 1985, Philippe Bernède has managed the estate and expanded its international presence, with nearly 85% of production exported worldwide. Today, the new generation aims to evolve the style of the wines towards greater freshness, elegance, and accessibility while respecting the historic identity of Clos La Coutale.
The Vineyard
Clos La Coutale benefits from an exceptional terroir spread across several complementary vineyard plots located around the meanders of the Lot River.
A first part of the vineyard lies on ancient alluvial terraces composed of siliceous pebbles, gravel, and reddish ferruginous sands. These highly draining soils promote optimal grape ripening and produce wines with fine and elegant tannins.
A second area is planted on very stony clay-limestone scree slopes known locally as “Tran.” This terroir plays an essential thermal role and brings richness, depth, and length to the wines.
Finally, a third section of the vineyard is planted on deep clay soils deposited over thousands of years. This natural water reserve provides the vines with consistent nourishment and gives rise to softer, more generous wines.
The vineyard is managed under sustainable viticulture practices with close monitoring of grape maturity. For “La Griotte,” the vines average between 15 and 20 years of age and are planted at a density of 5,000 vines per hectare.
Winemaking and Aging
The grapes are mechanically harvested at optimal ripeness in order to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity.
Winemaking relies on slow fermentation with strict temperature control between 15 and 20°C. Three punch-downs are carried out at the beginning of fermentation to gently extract aromas and structure. A deliberately short maceration period preserves the suppleness and fruit-forward character sought for this cuvée.
The wine is then aged for 12 months in concrete vats. No fining or filtration is carried out in order to preserve the natural expression of Malbec and the purity of the fruit.
Wine Character
A deep ruby robe with brilliant highlights. The nose opens on generous notes of blackcurrant and morello cherry, lifted by a hint of grey pepper. The palate is fleshy and supple, with dark fruit aromas and a subtle spicy edge. Silky tannins and a fresh balance lead to a gourmand, approachable finish.
