The Original Malbec by Rigal

Description

Original Malbec by Maison Rigal: Discover the Character of French Malbec

A Malbec Specialist with a Long History

Rigal Original Malbec is a red wine produced by Maison Rigal, a historic wine company established in Cahors in 1755.

The Cahors region is closely associated with Malbec, a grape variety also known locally as Côt or Auxerrois.

Over the centuries, Malbec has become recognised for its deep colour, dark fruit aromas and distinctive tannic structure.

Maison Rigal explores different expressions of this grape, including wines intended to be enjoyed while young.

Original Malbec is designed to highlight the variety's fruity and approachable character.

100% Malbec from IGP Comté Tolosan

The 2022 vintage is produced exclusively from Malbec grapes.

It carries the IGP Comté Tolosan designation, which covers a broad wine-producing area in South-West France.

The grapes are selected from different vineyard soils associated with the Lot Valley.

These include clay-limestone formations, terraces and plateau vineyards.

The diversity of these sites contributes to the wine's balance between fruit concentration, structure and freshness.

Although Maison Rigal is historically associated with Cahors, this particular wine is classified as IGP Comté Tolosan rather than AOC Cahors.

Winemaking Focused on Fruit and Smooth Tannins

The winemaking process aims to preserve the natural fruit aromas of Malbec while producing a supple texture.

According to the available technical information for the 2022 vintage, the grapes are destemmed before undergoing cold pre-fermentation maceration.

Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks over approximately 10 to 12 days.

Temperature control and regular manual punch-downs help manage extraction.

Part of the wine receives oak ageing to develop additional roundness and structure.

The resulting style emphasises fruit purity rather than pronounced oak flavours.

Tasting Notes: Blackberry, Violet and Gentle Spice

Rigal Original Malbec displays a deep red colour with purple highlights.

The nose opens with aromas of blackberry, blueberry and blackcurrant.

Fresh raspberry notes add brightness, while delicate violet aromas provide a floral dimension.

A subtle spicy character completes the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is rounded and fruit-driven.

Dark berry flavours are supported by soft, velvety tannins.

Fresh acidity keeps the texture balanced and lively.

The finish is gently peppery, with lingering ripe fruit.

Food Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This Malbec is particularly well suited to grilled meats and traditional South-West French cuisine.

Try it with roast lamb, duck breast, charcuterie or grilled beef.

It also pairs well with burgers, roasted vegetables and mature sheep's milk cheese.

Serving the wine at around 16°C helps preserve its fresh fruit character.

Rigal Original Malbec is best enjoyed in its youth, when its blackberry and violet aromas are especially expressive.

Its combination of generous fruit, smooth tannins and freshness makes it an accessible example of French Malbec.