Cahors Malbec, Chateau Ponzac 2020

Chateau Ponzac , Cahors

Chateau Ponzac covers 28 hectares of vineyards in the Cahors appellation, with vines that are 25-years-old on average. They produce Malbec and Merlot. Matthieu and Virginia are assisted in the vineyard and the cellar by Pascal Verhaeghe of Château du Cèdre, one of the leading estates in the Cahors appellation. Pascale helps them finetune the vinification & ageing of their wines.

Vineyards are located on the Cahors plateau, benefiting from cool nights that help preserve acidity and freshness in the grapes. The soils vary across the estate, with Château Ponzac sourced from marl-limestone soils, contributing to the wine's structure and depth. Since 2018, the vineyard has been managed organically, focusing on sustainable practices to preserve biodiversity and soil health.

After manual harvesting, the grapes undergo a cold pre-fermentation maceration to extract colour and aromas. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vats, followed by a 28-day maceration period. The wine is then aged for 12 months in a combination of concrete, stainless steel, and oak barrels, allowing for the development of complexity and integration of flavours. The winemaking process is overseen by Matthieu and Virginie Molinié, with assistance from Pascal Verhaeghe of Château du Cèdre, ensuring precision and quality in every step.

The domaines signature wine, the nose is expressive, offering aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and subtle hints of graphite and spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a rich texture, balanced by firm tannins and a refreshing acidity. Flavours of dark fruits, cocoa, and a touch of earthiness lead to a long, persistent finish. This wine showcases the depth and structure typical of Cahors Malbec, with the potential to age gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years.

Grapes: 100% Malbec (Côt Noir)

Organic