In Russia, Cahors is an essential attribute of religious holidays. It is this variety that is called church wine; priests use it in their rituals. To feel the atmosphere of the holiday and fully enjoy this drink, you need to know how to choose the right Cahors in the store without accidentally buying a fake.
It is interesting that the very concept of “Cahors” in the West and in our country has a different meaning. In France, Cahors refers to wines made in the province of Cahors from Malbec grapes. This drink has very little in common with its Russian namesake.
Cahors (Russian meaning) is a red fortified wine with a strength of 16%, produced by heating the pulp and must to 65-80 ° C, followed by fermentation, the addition of rectifying alcohol and aging the finished drink for at least 2 years. The Russian Orthodox Church uses this wine in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, and believers drink it on religious holidays.
The similarity of the name with French wine is explained by the fact that under Peter I, wine for church needs was imported from France, only centuries later its production was established in Russia. But the historical name remained, although now these two wines are very different in terms of production technology.
When buying Cahors, consider the recommendations that I gave in the material on choosing a regular wine in a store, and remember the following:
- when diluting good Cahors with water one to one, it does not lose its bright red color and fragrant aroma;
- over the years, this wine does not get better, its color changes from bright red to brick, so it is better to buy Cahors, which has recently gone on sale (aging 3-4 years);
- The most famous Cahors brands in Russia are Inkerman and Massandra.
How to drink Cahors
It is important not only to choose, but also to drink Cahors correctly. According to the rules of etiquette, this fortified wine is served slightly chilled (14-16°C) and goes well with any dish. The drink is eaten slowly, in small sips.
Believers believe that drinking Cahors helps to strengthen the connection between a person and higher powers, so it is not customary to talk with a glass in hand.
