Clos Troteligotte is a 16-hectare estate located at Villesèque on the Causse southwest of Cahors. Family vineyard founded in 1987, taken over by Emmanuel Rybinski in 2004, AB-certified in 2014 then Biodynamics in 2017. The estate is one of the biodynamic references of the new Cadurcian generation, with a uniquely named range (all cuvées start with "K-") and a precise, careful approach to Causse Malbec.
For general context, see our biodynamic Cahors winemakers guide and new generation.
Terroir and vineyard
16 hectares on the Causse de Limogne at Villesèque, altitude 300+ metres. Free-draining limestone soils characteristic of the Causse, pronounced day/night thermal swing, natural ventilation. Malbec dominates at ~90%, with plots of Tannat and Merlot for entry-level and mid-range blends.
Vineyard practices:
- Certified biodynamics: 500/501 preparations, lunar calendar
- Maximum biodiversity: beehives installed in the plots, agroforestry between the rows
- Soil work light mechanical or manual
- Manual harvest systematic
See our Causse vs Valley comparison to understand the qualitative advantages of altitude on the Causse.
Emmanuel Rybinski — family takeover in biodynamics
The family vineyard was planted in 1987 by Emmanuel's father. Emmanuel Rybinski took over in 2004, after his father's passing, and began a progressive transition to biodynamics: AB certification obtained in 2014, then Biodynamics certification in 2017. An assumed and structured approach, not opportunistic.
Alongside wine, the estate also produces a craft gin distilled on site — a rare diversification in the South-West, showing the estate's openness to new flavour territories.
Flagship cuvées — the K- range
K-Lys
Signature cuvée of the estate. Garnet with carmine reflections, complex nose (vegetal notes, black fruits like blackberry and blackcurrant, subtle animal touches). Elegant balance, fine tannins, long finish.
Pairing: duck confit, grilled red meats, mature cheeses. Cellaring 8–12 years. See confit + Cahors pairing.
K-or
High-end single-plot cuvée. Pure Causse Malbec, careful ageing (concrete vats + used barrels depending on vintage). Structured profile, serious cellaring wine.
Pairing: feathered game, Quercy lamb, restaurant signature dishes. Cellaring 10–15 years.
K-nom, K-bo, K-ré, K-libre, K-pot'
Extended estate range, from simplest (K-bo as IGP du Lot, accessible contemporary profile) to most experimental. Each cuvée explores a specific aspect of the terroir or vinification, in the drinkability and sincerity spirit claimed by Emmanuel Rybinski.
To note for the wine lover
- K- naming: memorisation may seem complex at first, but it corresponds to a coherent brand identity. K-Lys is the recommended entry door to discover the style.
- Recent certified biodynamics: the Biodynamics certification dates from 2017 — for wine lovers preferring a longer biodynamic anteriority, see Cosse-Maisonneuve (since 1999) or Mas del Périé (since 2011) or Château de Chambert (since 2012).
- Geographic position: Villesèque is southwest of Cahors, on the Causse — a favourable terroir for organic (drainage, ventilation). To understand, see our article on the Causse.
- Welcoming estate: Emmanuel Rybinski is known for his openness to visitors and the educational quality of his tastings. Recommended for first discovery of biodynamic practices in Cahors.
Public sources consulted
- Clos Troteligotte — official site: clostroteligotte.com — consulted 2026-05-17
- Vignerons Indépendants du Lot — Clos Troteligotte — consulted 2026-05-17
- Bio Biodynamie Nature — Rybinski — consulted 2026-05-17
- Winespector — Clos Troteligotte — consulted 2026-05-17
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