Region of legends
Cahors is one of France’s oldest and most historic wine regions. Its approximately 4,500 hectares of vineyards stretch picturesquely along the banks of the River Lot, where wine has been cultivated since the 1st century BC. Over time, the grape known as Côt evolved in the 18th century into the internationally celebrated Malbec, renowned for its deep, dark color – once famously called the “black wine of Cahors.”
The region’s wines even found their way into royal courts. Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of medieval Europe’s most influential women, was a passionate ambassador for Cahors’ black wine. As Queen of France and later Queen of England, she introduced the wines of her homeland to both courts. Her son, Richard the Lionheart, also maintained a strong connection to Cahors, using its vineyards as hunting grounds. Thanks to this rich history, Cahors wines have long held a special place in English wine culture – a connection that continues to this day.
DIVINE SUPPORT – A BLESSING FOR MALBEC
The rise of Malbec in Cahors was shaped not only by politics and trade, but also by a touch of the divine. Pope John XXII, born Jacques of Cahors, brought international prestige to the region when he established his papal residence in Avignon. Recognizing the talent of Cahors’ vintners, he encouraged them to contribute their expertise to what is now the world-famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, where their craftsmanship quickly became indispensable.
Even more importantly, the Pope elevated the status of Cahors wines by making them the official communion wine for Holy Mass. With this, Malbec gained not only spiritual significance, but also an enduring reputation as a wine of excellence and distinction.
CAHORS & BORDEAUX – A SHARED HISTORY
The rise of Bordeaux as a global wine hub was closely tied to its location on the Garonne River, which opened the doors to international trade. In medieval times, Bordeaux’s own wines were lighter in style, and winemakers often blended them with the deeper, more powerful wines from Cahors. The bold Malbec of Cahors gave body, color, and character – qualities that made Bordeaux wines even more sought after abroad.
While Bordeaux grew into a famous trading center, the reputation of Cahors Malbec continued to stand proudly on its own, celebrated for its intensity and authenticity.
THE 20TH CENTURY – RESILIENCE & RENAISSANCE
In 1956, a devastating frost swept across Cahors, wiping out nearly every vine in the region. It could have been the end of Malbec here – but instead, it marked the beginning of a rebirth. With determination, growers replanted their vineyards, holding on firmly to the grape that had shaped their land for centuries.
A turning point came in 1971, when Cahors was officially granted Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status, supported by President Georges Pompidou. This recognition not only safeguarded Malbec’s heritage but also positioned Cahors as one of France’s emblematic wine regions.
Today, every bottle labeled Cahors AOP carries the weight of this history: resilience, authenticity, and a winemaking tradition that continues to thrive.