Crocus Cahors L Atelier 2020

Region: Cahors, France

Grape Variety: 100% Malbec

When most wine lovers speak of Malbec today, thoughts inevitably drift to Argentina, its adopted home that has turned the grape into a global superstar. Yet Malbec’s roots run far deeper, tracing back centuries to the rugged limestone plateaus and meandering river valleys of Cahors in Southwest France. Here, the grape is known locally as Côt, and it has historically yielded wines famed for their inky depth and tannic backbone—wines meant for cellaring and contemplation.

At Crocus, legendary winemaker Paul Hobbs, widely celebrated for his visionary work across multiple continents, teamed up with Cahors native Bertrand-Gabriel Vigouroux, whose family history in the region spans four generations of dedicated wine growing. Their mission was simple yet ambitious: to craft modern, elegant Cahors wines that reflect their ancient terroir while showcasing a brighter, fresher face of Malbec.

L’Atelier, which translates to "the workshop," is precisely this—a wine meticulously sculpted through attentive vineyard management and a thoughtful approach in the cellar. Grapes are sourced from various parcels, each carefully selected for its distinctive character, rooted in soils dominated by gravelly terraces and limestone-rich slopes overlooking the Lot River. Here, the vines dig deep, drawing nuance and intensity from the mineral rich soils.

The 2020 vintage benefited from an optimal growing season, allowing gradual ripening and balanced fruit expression. Upon harvest, the grapes underwent careful sorting to ensure only pristine berries were vinified. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks, a choice that preserves freshness and allows Malbec’s inherent vibrancy and pure fruit character to shine without interference. Aging occurred in French oak, subtly imparting structure and flavor, but always with restraint—never obscuring the intrinsic beauty of Cahors Malbec.

Pour a glass, and its color alone—a mesmerizing, opaque ruby—reminds you why Cahors wines are historically dubbed “the black wines.” Aromatically compelling, L’Atelier opens with vivid scents of wild blackberries, crushed violets, and subtle notes of cocoa powder and freshly ground coffee. On the palate, it confidently balances power and finesse. Supple tannins frame a core of blueberry compote, dark plum, and hints of licorice, giving way to an elegant minerality and crisp acidity that refreshes rather than overwhelms. This incredibly versatile wine works well with a classic cassoulet, the famous dish of the region, as well as steaks and these amazing lamb chops.