Cahors has been an established winemaking area for centuries and a Latin manuscript from 1456 shows that the Burc family were already land owners around Cahors at that time. 5th generation vigneron Jean-Luc Burc now shares the running of this 50 hectare estate near Puy-L’Eveque with his daughters, Anne and Emmanuelle. They produce individual and characterful wines from their various vineyard parcels which encompass all of the classic terroirs of the region, both on the renowned terraces of the Lot and upon the limestone plateau above. The estate’s old vines are carefully managed according to the principles of lutte raisonnee.

Keen to protect the future of its vineyards today, the Burc family has obtained Terra Vitis certification for its sustainability work at Chteau Pineraie. The family is an active exponent of reasoned viticulture.

Vineyards

The vineyards for the Athentique from Pineraie lie on the highest terraces of the lot.

5 hectares of sustainably-managed vines averaging 60 years’ age, the oldest of which were planted in 1920. These old vines, combined with the gravelly and siliceous sandy clay soils contribute a great deal of character to this hefty wine. Green harvesting and thinning help to lower yields to 30hl/ha.

Vinification

The crop is fermented at 30 degrees and vatted for a month before ageing in oak casks for 18 months, 60 – 70% of which is new oak.

Tasting Notes

The vineyards for the Athentique from Pineraie lie on the highest terraces of the lot river.

Leaner style compared to the 2012 vintage (there was no 2013 vintage). Attractive leafy notes, dark fruits giving a fresher style.

Comes to life with game meats and dishes with some subtle spice.