Foncastel, Picpoul De Pinet, Languedoc, France 2021

Description

Picpoul de Pinet is a small appellation near France’s Mediterranean coast and is proving to be a popular region for those looking for crisp, fresh alternatives to Sauvignon Blanc. The grape variety is the white Picpoul or sometimes ‘Piquepoul’, which retains good levels of acidity even when fully ripe. It is one of the oldest Languedoc grapes, growing near the Thau Lagoon for centuries. In fact as early as 1618, the botanist J.B. Maniol cited Piquepoul as one of the best known Languedoc grapes in his work “Sylve plantarium”.

This is a really classic example of Picpoul, steely, mineral notes with good acidity and delicate fruits on the palate.

Picpoul de Pinet works brilliantly with seafood and shellfish as its flavours neutralize the iodine and salt in them. However the wine is also works well with rich cheese, charcuterie and even chocolate. It is best drunk young and cool (between 8-10°C).