Pineau des Charentes, a regional treasure, is a liqueur wine. It subtly combines the know-how of local winemakers with the richness of the Charente terroir. It’s the result of blending grape must and Cognac. Different varieties exist, such as White Pineau, Red Pineau and Very Old Pineau, which captivate connoisseurs the world over.
History of terroir :
The origins of Pineau des Charentes date back to the 16th century. It was at this time that winegrowers in the Charente region mixed grape must with cognac during aging. The result was a sweet, aromatic liquid that rapidly gained in popularity.
Since October 12, 1945, Pineau has enjoyed national renown, and is beginning to be exported internationally. This is due in no small part to its AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) status.
Today, local producers continue this tradition with dedication, using ancestral methods to guarantee consistent quality. Much of the communication surrounding Pineau is handled by the Comité National du Pineau des Charentes, founded in 1949.
The success of its conception :
Pineau des Charentes is the product of blending a white grape must, rich in sugar, with a very young Cognac of high alcohol content, on the same day as the harvest. It is then placed in barrels for varying lengths of time. Depending on the quality, there are different lengths of ageing: 1 year minimum for a Pineau des Charentes, 5 years for a Old Pineau des Charentes, 10 years minimum for a Very Old Pineau des Charentes.
It comes in a range of colors and styles, offering a palette of flavors from fruity to velvety.
Although Pineau des Charentes is rooted in local culture, its appeal extends beyond France’s borders. It has become a symbol of French art de vivre, appreciated worldwide for its quality and uniqueness.
The differents styles
The White Pineau :
The White Pineau is distinguished by its golden color and fresh, fruity character. The grape varieties used, mainly Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche and Colombard, give Pineau Blanc delicate aromas of white-fleshed fruit, citrus and spring flowers.
The Red Pineau :
The Red Pineau has a deep ruby color. The Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grape varieties contribute to its rich aromas of red fruits, cherries and spicy notes.
The Very Old Pineau :
The Very Old Pineau des Charentes is the result of a long aging process in oak barrels, giving it exceptional depth and complexity. After several years in barrel, this Pineau is distinguished by its amber color and evolved aromas of dried fruit, honey and vanilla.
How do you serve it ?
Pineau des Charentes can be enjoyed in a variety of ways: chilled as an aperitif, as an after-dinner drink, or even as a cocktail.
White Pineau is often served as an aperitif, and goes perfectly with seafood, light cheeses and fruity desserts.
Red Pineau, on the other hand, is more full-bodied than its white counterpart, and goes perfectly with meat dishes, mature cheeses and dark chocolates. Served slightly chilled, it reveals all its aromatic complexity.
And last but not least, Very Old Pineau goes well with blue-veined cheeses and the iodine of oysters.
COMMANDEZ
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