Picpus Malbec Syrah, Comte Tolosan IGP 2023

Get to know: Les Vignobles St Didier Parnac 'Picpus' Malbec Syrah

A richly fruited and expressive French red wine from the characterful Comté Tolosan in South West France.

Tasting Note

‘Picpus’ Malbec Syrah is a good value, concentrated, generous red that’s all about wild berry fruit and spicy depth. Deep ruby in colour with lifted aromas of blackberry, redcurrant, strawberry, liquorice and a touch of menthol from the Malbec. On the palate, it’s plush and medium-bodied, bursting with ripe dark fruit, gentle spice and soft, rounded tannins. It finishes with a savoury aftertaste. A great example of a South West France red with plenty of flavour.

Top food pairings:

• Slow-cooked beef stew with herbs
• Chargrilled lamb chops
• A hearty lentil and mushroom pie

Kate Says

"Big, bold fruit with a smooth finish — this is the kind of bottle I open when I want something comforting but not heavy. Perfect for cosy nights in."

Producer Info

Vignobles Saint Didier Parnac is a forward-thinking yet deeply rooted Cahors estate, founded by Hervé Joyaux Fabre after decades of making award-winning Malbec in Argentina. Drawn back to Malbec’s French homeland, Hervé and his wife Diane invested in the limestone-rich plateau of Les Causses, where varied terroirs and a warm, sunny climate give Malbec and Syrah superb ripeness and character. The estate follows a minimal-intervention philosophy and is certified HVE, producing wines that express both fruit purity and terroir.

How it’s made:

• Varieties: Malbec (80%) and Syrah (20%)
• Grapes harvested at full maturity after a warm, sunny end to the growing season
• Cool pre-fermentation maceration for four days to enhance fruit purity
• Fermented in stainless steel at 25–26°C with carefully managed extraction
• No oak ageing to preserve the natural fruit expression

Good to know:

• Region: Comté Tolosan, Sud-Ouest, France
• Style: Red
• Closure: Diam
• Vegan: Yes
• ABV: 12.5%
• Vintage: 2023

Why we love it:

This expressive South West France red hits the sweet spot between ripe, generous fruit and smooth drinkability. The Malbec–Syrah blend brings bold flavour without heaviness, making it a versatile choice for weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend treat.