This wine comes from the “other” south of France, the Southwest—a stunningly beautiful, well-preserved region. Lesser known than Provence or the Riviera, it is perhaps most famous for its luxury products, such as Armagnac, foie gras, and truffles. While those products have their merits, of course, locals have long enjoyed simpler pleasures as well. Take Clos La Coutale’s Cahors, with its reputation that dates back six generations of making drinkable, affordable, reliable, everyday rouge. Philippe Bernède, who has headed the estate for more than three decades, provides a red that is full of expression and fruit when poured into the glass (thank you, Merlot), with darker spice, licorice, and cassis lurking behind (hats off to you, Malbec). Young, it is juicy, smooth, and fresh. As it ages, keep an eye out for hints of some of the region’s more famous goods.