Picpoul

Region: France

Grape variety: Picpoul

Backgroud: The Cave - Pomerols, South of France, are one of the leading producers of Picpoul, a grape well known along the southern coast of France. Stretching along the Thau Lagoon to the west of the Mediterranean’s Golfe de Lyon lies the largest white wine producing area in the Languedoc: The Picpoul de Pinet terroir. It consists of a triangle bounded by Agde, Pézenas and Sète: a limestone plateau basking in the rising sun covered in highly perfumed garrigue, rows of vines, and scattered pine groves. This rare grape, from vines grown near salty étangs on the very edge of the Mediterranean, produces a wine of fascinating contrasts.

Tasting notes: The gloriously fruity, perfumed, light-bodied Picpoul de Pinet reveals copious notes of honeyed citrus (grapefruit and lemon zest) and delicate honeyed pear-like flavours. Fragrant aromas of pear and white flowers leap enticingly from the glass leading to a palate that is crisp and lively with hints of grapefruit and exotic fruits.

Food pairing: Known as the Muscadet of the South in France this is a thirst-quenchingly mineral wine that is the perfect choice as a seafood partner, particularly oysters!