Cot originated in southwest France. France, it is cultivated in the Loire Valley, the Bordeaux area, and Cahors. This grape variety is associated with Argentina, where it is known as Malbec, derived from Malbeck, one of the people who introduced Cot to Bordeaux in the 19th century. Several thousand hectares of Malbec are planted in Chile and there are also vineyards in California, Australia, and Italy. This grape variety is vigorous and its susceptible to poor fruit set has been corrected by clonal selection. Yields are controlled by high-density planting and the use of rootstocks that restrict vigor. Cot is susceptible to dead-arm disease, downy mildew, and leafhoppers. It has medium-sized bunches and grapes. It must be perfectly ripe when picked to avoid herbaceous flavors and bitterness. When ripe, it is capable of producing deep-colored wines with good structure and subtle, red-berry aromas. Cot wines have good aging potential and also produce superb rosés. In Argentina, the vines are irrigated and produce fruitier, softer wines.

Synonym : Malbec