In style, Coutale doesn’t make many concessions to Malbec tannins. What you get is an impressively structured, firmly tannic wine, packed also with black fruits. The solid structure and the weight of fruit demand aging for at least 5 years.——R.V.(3/1/2012)—— 91

Philippe Bernede’s 2007 Cahors – a 80:20 Malbec:Merlot blend – continues Clos la Coutale’s long-running streak of excellence. Smelling – much as did the 2006 – of ripe mulberries, cassis, cardamom, carob, and black walnut husks, it offers a juicy and expansive palate through less sense of density and less textural refinement than that predecessor. Peppery pungency, sirloin juices, and faintly tart black fruits dominate a long if slightly lean finish. Paired properly – especially with grilled meats, where its element of freshness and precisely its lack of weightiness will prove welcome – this will serve admirably over the coming 3-4 years, and might even pick up some richness and further complexity. Imported by Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524