Tucked away in the rugged, limestone-rich landscape of southwestern France, Château du Cèdre has become synonymous with excellence in Cahors winemaking. This respected, family-run estate is managed by brothers Pascal and Jean-Marc Verhaeghe, who have carried on the legacy of their grandfather Léon, a Flemish immigrant who settled in the region in the early 1900's.
What began as a modest farming endeavor has grown into one of Cahors’ most celebrated wine estates, known for its authenticity, precision, and deep respect for terroir.
Widely regarded as the benchmark for quality in Cahors, Château du Cèdre is particularly revered for its expressions of Malbec, the region’s signature grape. But among their standout wines, one bottling offers something especially unique and captivating: the Château du Cèdre ‘Le Cèdre Malbec Vintage’.
This fortified wine is a rarity in Cahors, a 100% Malbec dessert-style wine that draws inspiration from Port, yet offers a distinctly French character. Crafted from late-harvest grapes, the fruit is hand-picked at optimal ripeness, then foot-trodden in traditional lagares, echoing the Portuguese method. A neutral grape spirit is added to halt fermentation, preserving the natural sweetness of the grapes while keeping alcohol levels more moderate than a classic Port.
The result is a wine of remarkable depth and elegance. In the glass, it reveals a rich, almost velvet-like texture, with intense aromas of ripe blackberry, blackcurrant, and crushed violet petals. On the palate, these dark fruit notes are layered with nuances of warm spice, bittersweet cocoa, and a subtle nuttiness that adds complexity and length.
‘Le Cèdre Malbec Vintage’ is both indulgent and refined, perfect for pairing with dark chocolate desserts, aged cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner pour. It’s a testament to Château du Cèdre’s creativity and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what Malbec can be.
For those looking to explore the deeper, unexpected side of Cahors, this wine is a must-try, a beautiful marriage of tradition, terroir, and innovation.
''At the end of the day, you really can’t make a wrong choice.
As long as you pay attention to what it is that you don’t like about a wine
each bottle will get you closer to what you do like.
Take it one glass at a time!''