Malbec

This variety originates from the southwest. According to genetic analyses conducted in Montpellier, it is the result of a cross between Magdeleine Noire des Charentes and Prunelard.

In France, this variety may be officially called “Cot”. In the European Union, Cot may be officially referred to by other authorized names: Malbec (Spain and the Czech Republic), Malbech (Italy), and Malbek (Austria).

The clusters and berries are medium-sized. With well-controlled production, this early-ripening variety yields wines with good color, fragrant and tannic, suitable for aging. Rosé vinification also yields good results. Generally, care must be taken to achieve sufficient ripeness to avoid the excessively herbaceous and vegetal aromas of Malbec, which often impart a certain hardness and bitterness.

• This vigorous vine is sensitive to coulure (shatter), but clonal selection has significantly reduced this defect.
• Vigor should be controlled through high planting densities and the use of low-vigor rootstocks.
• This variety is quite sensitive to winter frosts during the first years after planting.
• Following a spring frost, shoots from secondary buds are not very fertile.
• Upon reaching maturity, there is sometimes a risk of berry drop.