Sure, most of you have experienced Malbec. In the last couple of years this big, robust grape has been hotter than Johnny Depp and Megan Fox combined. However, many people tend to automatically think of Argentina when it comes to Malbec. These are people who haven’t discovered the magic and deliciousness of Malbec when grown in Cahors, France.

It can get a little bit confusing, but this grape takes on different names when grown in different areas. Legendary in its own right, Cahors Malbec can be luscious while intense. Velvety in texture, it can make a romantic out of even the surliest man. The wines from this Southern France region require at least 70% Malbec, and allow the rest to be composed of Merlot and the lesser known, highly tannic Tannat varietals.

What makes Cahors wines so distinct is the terroir. In fact, several different styles come out of the diverse lands that exist within this region and the varying altitudes of vineyards allow Cahors to produce three distinct styles of wines. The vineyards lie on three different terrace levels. Vineyards on Cahors’ lower terraces produce supple, fruit-filled wines. No need to stick these in the cellar for a long time – they’re approachable from the get-go, so you can pop and enjoy! The mid-level terraces yield wines that have the same quality of fruit, but are a little fleshier and more structured. The higher the terraces, the better the soil drainage. It’s the upper terraces where Cahors growers really gain their reputation – where the big, rich and long aging wines come from. When it comes down to it, there is a different style Cahors for any and all occasions.

Don’t just take our word for it. Cahors is quickly showing the world what incredible things their Malbec grape has long been capable of. At the inaugural International Malbec Competition last month, Cahors wines took home a total of 22 medals – 8 Gold and 14 Silver. This isn’t the first time that the region has experienced publicity and praise for their wines. Dating back to the Middle Ages, these Malbec-based masterpieces graced the glasses of the world’s most influential figures. Henry II toasted with Cahors at his wedding. Pope John XXII was born in the region and toted the region’s Malbec as his drink of choice. Famed French minister Jean-Baptiste Colbert hailed the wines to be better than Bordeaux. If you want to truly dive into the rich history and birthplace of Malbec, try the original…Cahors. It is making a killer comeback – watch out, Johnny Depp.

Drink up,