Pineau des Charentes

History of the AOC Pineau des Charentes Appellation

The AOC Pineau des Charentes, a treasure of the Charentes region, is the result of a happy historical accident dating back to the 16th century. According to legend, a winemaker accidentally poured grape must into a barrel containing Cognac eau-de-vie, thus creating what is now an essential part of French wine heritage. Recognized as an AOC since 1945, Pineau des Charentes continues to charm sweet wine enthusiasts, offering a rich aromatic palette and an intoxicating sweetness.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Pineau des Charentes Appellation

• Climate: The Charentes region enjoys a mild oceanic climate, conducive to vine cultivation.
• Soils: The limestone and limestone-clay soils give Pineau des Charentes its typicality and finesse.

Emblematic Grape Varieties of AOC Pineau des Charentes Wines

Two varieties of Pineau des Charentes are produced under this appellation: Pineau Blanc and Pineau Rosé, each with its distinct characteristics.

• Pineau des Charentes Blanc: Primarily made from white grape varieties such as Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Montils, it is distinguished by its freshness and fruity aromas.
• Pineau des Charentes Rosé: Produced from red grape varieties such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, it offers more complex and spicy notes.

Style of AOC Pineau des Charentes Wines

• Pineau des Charentes Blanc: Pineau des Charentes Blanc displays a color ranging from straw yellow to golden. The nose exudes aromas of white flowers, white-fleshed fruits, and vanilla notes. The AOC Pineau des Charentes Blanc is fresh and round on the palate with a delicately sweet finish.
• Pineau des Charentes Rosé: Ranging in color from salmon pink to ruby red, Pineau des Charentes Rosé offers an aromatic bouquet of red fruits, sweet spices, and sometimes candied fruit notes. On the palate, this fortified wine shows intensity with a beautiful harmony between sweetness and liveliness.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Pineau des Charentes Wines

Here are our recommendations for the best food and wine pairings to accompany a bottle of sweet wine from a domaine or château in AOC Pineau des Charentes Blanc or Rosé:

• Sweet White Wine: Charentais melon with Pineau, foie gras, Roquefort cheese.
• Sweet Rosé Wine: Mouclade (mussels in a creamy saffron sauce), chocolate mousse, cherry clafoutis.