Pineau des Charentes

Cognac lovers will adore an aperitif called Pineau des Charentes made from the famous brandy. It is produced by combining three parts fresh grape juice with one part Cognac. Although red and rosé versions exist, I believe the white is truest to the spirit because it utilizes the exact same grapes overall that are used in Cognac (Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, Colombard). It is aged for at least eighteen months in oak and is usually two years old when bottled and about 17% alcohol by volume. Pale yellow to golden in colour, it’s slightly sweet and reminiscent of apples, nuts, flower, herbs and sometimes oak if longer in barrel. Great in cocktails and grand with foie gras, fresh ripe fruit, desserts, nuts and stinky cheese!