Domaine de Castelnau Picpoul De Pinet 2021

Domaine de Castelnau is a historic estate located in the Languedoc region of southern France, known for producing wines that highlight the vibrant character of the Mediterranean climate. The Domaine de Castelnau Picpoul de Pinet 2021 is a great example of this region’s famed Picpoul de Pinet, a wine celebrated for its fresh, zesty character. The vineyard lies near the Thau Lagoon, close to the Mediterranean Sea, where the cooling sea breezes help retain the bright acidity that is the hallmark of the Picpoul grape.

Picpoul de Pinet is sometimes referred to as the “Chablis of the South” for its crisp, mineral-driven profile. The limestone-rich soils of the region further enhance the wine’s refreshing, saline quality. Domaine de Castelnau focuses on preserving the pure expression of the grape, with minimal intervention in the winery to let the vibrant, citrusy character of the wine take centre stage.

Appearance: Pale straw yellow with greenish tints, displaying a brilliant clarity in the glass.

Aroma: The nose is fresh and lively, with aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and grapefruit, along with subtle floral notes of white flowers and a saline hint, reflecting the proximity to the sea.

Taste: On the palate, this Picpoul de Pinet is crisp and zesty, with flavours of lemon, lime, and green apple, accompanied by a refreshing minerality and a touch of salinity. The bright acidity gives the wine a clean, mouth-watering quality, making it exceptionally fresh and vibrant.

Finish: The finish is long and refreshing, with lingering citrus and mineral notes, leaving a crisp and clean sensation on the palate.

Food pairing: This Picpoul de Pinet is a perfect match for oysters or other shellfish, where the wine’s zesty acidity and saline notes complement the briny flavours of the seafood. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled sea bass or shrimp, as its citrusy freshness enhances the delicate flavours of the fish while its minerality provides a perfect balance.