The wines of Cahors, whose vineyards were established at the time of the Roman conquest, have enjoyed a celebrated history. For a long time, the wine of Cahors was greatly appreciated by the English, who modified the course of the river Lot to allow it to be transported to Bordeaux. Among other distinctions, they are recorded as being served at the wedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II of England.

The Filhol family has cultivated vines in Viré-sur-Lot for many generations, and has taken advantage of the expansion of the wines of Cahors to give birth to the Domaine de Hauterive (High Bank). Located 25 miles west of Cahors, Chateau de Hauterive and its Domaine of 19.5ha (47 acres) spreads over the terraces of the Lot (River) Valley. The vineyards are located among the best terroir of the commune of Viré which has the reputation of being the best of the whole valley. The Filhol’s vineyards have a beautiful South/Southwest exposure and are located on the 2nd and 3rd terraces of the Lot River’s ancient alluvial soil deposits with its soft, friable limestones interspersed with marl, ideally suited to the cultivation of vines because of its extreme permeability, and produces the most concentrated wine. The average age of the vines are 25 years, the oldest being more than 40 years. 70% of the vineyard is planted with Auxerrois or Côt, the local names for Malbec, and 30% Merlot. The Malbec grape varietal is the essence of the Cahors and brings the perfume of wild berries and its concentration of tannins to the wine, while the Merlot brings the roundness, fruitiness, alcohol, and refinement to the bouquet.

The production is done according to the Terra Vitis practice; the cultivation of soil with organic matter, no use of chemicals, the growing of grass to prevent erosion and green harvest to maximize the concentration (the cutting of leaves to maximize exposure of the grapes to the sun). Maceration lasts for 15-21 days with 80% of the juice coming from “vin de goute” (free run juice) and then only the wine from the 1st pressing; aged in stainless and bottled one year later. The result is a wine of deep concentration, well built, full bodied and aromatic.

This is a special wine, made from 75% Malbec and 25% Merlot. The wine is almost black in color with nuances of purple. The aroma is overall fruity and spicy, reminiscent of blackberries and currants with a hint of licorice. On the palate it is intense from the start with notes of fruits-in-brandy and dark chocolate. This is a strong, concentrated wine that is well balanced with firm tannins. Great with game, lamb, read meat and cheeses. For optimum enjoyment, serve at room temperature after decanting.