Review: Ferrand Pineau des Charentes Blanc

Maison Ferrand may be known for making Cognac (and, of course, gin and rum as well), but its latest release isn’t a spirit at all. Ferrand’s new Pineau des Charentes is a fortified wine — and one of the most undersung delicacies of the Cognac region.

If you aren’t familiar, Pineau des Charentes is made in a method similar to Port, where freshly pressed grape must is fortified with Cognac before fermentation is complete, leaving the finished product naturally sweet and a little boozier than table wine. Ferrand’s is aged for a minimum of 18 months in oak barrels before bottling at 17% abv.

We received a bottle and put it through its paces.

Ferrand Pineau des Charentes Blanc Review

Pineau is always a treat to sample, and Ferrand’s is no exception. A bright nose exudes notes of mixed florals, honeyed pear, some citrus, and finally almonds, providing a truly beautiful collection of aromas to stick your nose into. As you sip, the initially floral-heavy wine leans more into the fruit, first lemon, then Meyer lemon, then tangerine. Soon, the affair turns peachy as the sweetness builds, finishing with a touch of apricot and a light hint of mint.

All told, it’s as delightful a bottle of Pineau as I can recall tasting in recent years. At this price, snap it up and sip it straight or mix it with tonic for an autumnal treat.

17% abv.

A- / $34

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