In America, Philippe Bernède's Clos La Coutale is synonymous with the "black wine" of Cahors, as it's long been a centerpiece of importer Kermit Lynch's portfolio. The 2022 version is typical of their wines: it is very much a Malbec wine, but the addition of 20% Merlot tempers the fierce, ferrous character of the Malbec and makes this the kind of Cahors that can be enjoyed young or put away for decades of aging. And, as Kermit Lynch is fond of saying, this is a wine we'd recommend at any price.